Baltimore Jewish Home - 12-28-23

VISIT US ON THE WEB! WWW.THEBJH.COM Vol. 9 Issue #25 | Dec 28 - Jan 10, 2024 | ‫ כ״ט טבת תשפ״ד‬- ‫ט״ז‬

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Bais Yaakov 10th Grade Engineering Class Shines with Chanukah Projects

10

Ma’amad Hadlaka at Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

58

2023 Year In Review

78

Looking Back to Move Forward: Make 2024 Your Money Year!

Annual Campaign January 7-8, 2024

Celebratory shabbos & Special Motzei Shabbos Event January 19-20, 2024

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Contents

Dear Readers,

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THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

DECEMBER 28, 2023

COMMUNITY

Around the Community

6

Community Calendar

46

Weekday Minyanim Guide

47

JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Zvi Teichman

42

PEOPLE 613 Seconds - Dr. A. Zuckerbrod

13

Spotlight - JEWELS

15

Spotlight - Catering by Yaffa

17

FEATURES 2023 Pictorial Review

14

2023 Year in Review

58

HUMOR & ENTERTAINMENT Centerfold

66

Notable Quotes

68

Kids Coloring Contest

82

LIFESTYLES Mental Health Corner

50

Tech Triumphs

52

A Boost of Inspiration

54

Bikur Cholim

56

Life Coach

71

Dating Dialogue

72

Health and Fitness

77

Common Cents

78

To Raise a Laugh

80

In the Kitchen

85

Your Money

86

Over the past ten weeks, we have seen the power of our People, how we have joined together to help each other and support each other. Sadly, it is in this tragedy that we see our similarities; the pain unites us as we reach out to one another. My hope is that our nation will soon join together in the Ultimate joy and that our happiness then will highlight the beauty of our differences that connect us.

We have also seen the power of the individual. I have spoken with quite a few people who are instrumental in running certain initiatives that have been put into place the past few weeks. And almost every one of those individuals has told me that when the opportunity presented itself, they jumped in, hoping to at least help in any way that they could. Soon, their efforts produced a giant undertaking, one which they could never have envisioned. One individual, hoping to help in a small way, and ultimately having a giant impact on our nation.

But it’s not just that. There are many people who are running large initiatives. And then there are others, who are doing their own part, putting in their own efforts, and creat-

And there are so many others who are davening and saying Tehillim and creating zechusim for our brothers and sisters being held captive and on the frontlines. Sometimes, we may wonder: it’s just me. I am only one person. What can I do? But there is so much we can do. So much we were put in this world to do. We just have to seize the moment – or even create the opportunity – and put in our efforts. And we need to remember: we’re not in this alone. Klal Yisroel is one being, one entity. When each person does their part, we are completing our job in this giant, mystical mission that our nation has been tasked with.

B’yachad n’natzeach. Together, we will win.

Wishing everyone a peaceful Shabbos, Shoshana

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ing ripples in that way. I know of someone who, on her own, is providing groups of girls who have been displaced from their homes with daily activities. I know of someone else who, on Thursday nights, has been making cholent and kugel for families who have been displaced from their homes, helping to bring in Shabbos with inspiration and song.

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The Baltimore Jewish Home is an independent bi-weekly newspaper. All opinions expressed by the journalists, contributors and/or advertisers printed and/or quoted herein are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME, their parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, Internet or another medium. The Baltimore Jewish Home is not responsible for typographical errors, or for the kashrus of any product or business advertised within. The BJH contains words of Torah. Please treat accordingly.

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Around the Community

Bais Yaakov High School’s 10th Grade Engineering Class Shines with Chanukah Projects By: BJLife Newsroom Photo Credits: Jeff Cohn Photography

B

ais Yaakov High School was dazzled by Chanukah projects from the 10th grade engineering class. Their work is part of a year-long course introducing them to principles of engineering using the CIJE curriculum. CIJE (the Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education) is a non-profit organization that supports over 200 Jewish schools across the country with curricula, resources, and professional development.

Mrs. Ora Attar challenged her engineering students to create Chanukah themed projects. While at times the girls were frustrated by difficulties with their projects, this is part of the engineering design process. They learned valuable lessons in persever-

ance and the importance of iterating on their designs to achieve success.

Mrs. Attar summarized to the class “You learned that if you keep at it, you are going to get a project that works and you really all did a fantastic job!”

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Lots of Chanukah Fun and Activities at TA!

Students pitched their Chanukah projects to Mr. Joseph Saltzman, Maryland program manager for CIJE. “It is very impressive to see the projects which they created after only a couple months in their first year engi-

neering class”, remarks Mr. Saltzman.

Projects include: A speaker that plays Chanukah songs while flashing patterned lights in the shape of a dreidel.

A dreidel speed game which has LEDs for each of the letters and you need to press the button when the correct LED flashes.

An automatic Chanukah present opener.

An automated dreidel game that spins a dreidel and lights up the letter on which it lands.

All the girls enjoyed working on the Chanukah projects and sharing them with the school, especially 10th graders Rena Caine and Shifra Goldman. “This is my favorite class,” exclaims Rena and Shifra adds, “it’s so much fun!”

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B Fill out the coupon below and mail back with your check

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Make Your End-of-Year Tax Deductible Donation to Ahavas Yisrael Charity Fund!

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E Call our office number: 410-358-2525

8

Around the Community

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

Yeshivas Toras Simcha Preschoolers of Baltimore, Maryland enjoying a trip to Bas Melech Playground

Third graders of Yeshivas Toras Simcha with their personally decorated Chanuka Donuts

Three Winners of the Toras Simcha Dreidel Making Contest Participants Grades 1-4, From left to right- Nosson Lebovitz Grade 2, Boruch Benyowitz Grade 4, Yosef Shalom Shepard Grade 2 and Rabbi Shai Scherer

Three Winners of the Yeshivas Toras Simcha Menorah Making Contest Participants Grades 5-8, From left to right- Akiva Krohn Grade 7, Chaim Katz Grade 5, Chaim Kimche Grade 7 and Rabbi Shai Scherer

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

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Around the Community

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

DECEMBER 28, 2023

Ma’amad Hadlaka at Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah By: BJLife Newsroom Photo Credits: Jeff Cohn Photography

O

n the 8th night of Chanukah, Zos Chanukah, the Rabbi Eichenstein held a public Ma’amad Hadlaka in conjunction with a Zos Chanukah Tish. The Ma’amad attracted hundreds of men and boys of all ages from across the community.

The Ma’amad was attended by many Roshei Yeshiva, Rabbanim, Klei Kodesh, and prominent Baalei Batim.

The Hadlaka was accompanied by the highly acclaimed Zemiros Choir, who uplifted the oilam with their singing of Niggunim which are part of the Seder Hadlaka. Dozens of boys from the Middle School Night Seder program crowded on to the bleachers, singing along and adding a tremendous Ruach.

Following the Hadlaka, the Rav sat down for the Zos Chanukah Tish and began with Divrei Hisorerus.

The Rav implored the oilam to utilize the time of Zos Chanukah for extra davening and learning as a zechus for Acheinu Bnei Yisroel.

R’ Aryeh Gross then proceeded to announce the launch of our Sefer Torah campaign, with the goal of unifying the kehilla by joining together in the special Mitzvah of Ksivas Sefer Torah and at the same time helping pay down its debts to position

Mercaz for a strong financial future.

The guest speaker at the Tish was Rav Yakov Frand Shlit”a, who explained that what made the Nes of Chanukah unique is that it wasn’t something “pre-programmed” in the Briah but

rather was a reaction to the Mesirus Nefesh of the Chashmonaim. He then quoted a Gemara in Sanhedrin to bring out that for us to be Zocheh for Nissim – ‫רחמנא ליבא בעי‬.

The Tish culminated with leibdig

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By: BJLife Newsroom

B

inyan Yisroel Boys’ had the amazing zechus of a very special visit from Rabbi Yaakov Hopfer shlita. Rabbi Hopfer addressed the students in Rabbi Binyanim Agular’s class, giving words of Chizuk and Divrei Torah.

The Rav observed a Kodesh lesson and took a tour of the Binyan Yisroel Boys’ classrooms and building. We have immense Hakaras Hatov to Rabbi Hopfer for all of his support, guidance, and encouragement, and haskama.

dancing, and all the participants passed by the Rav to receive Chanukha Gelt.

This Ma’amad has quickly become a highly anticipated event in the community, and we are already looking forward to the next one!

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Veterans Hospital in Ocular Disease.

I began work in private practice optometry in August 2011 and worked continuously to help my patients see better and maintain healthy eyes. I live with my supportive wife Shana and our four kids in the Baltimore community. I sit on the board at Shomrei Emunah and Shoresh and I continue to try and help out the community when I can.

What other services do you provide?

Our office provides full refractive services in order to prescribe accurate visual correction for all. Our expert team is ready to sell fashionable eyeglass frames and lenses with an assortment of add-on options.

We also fit, train and sell contact lenses. We test for and manage binocular vision disorders with lenses, prisms and are expanding into vision therapy services as needed. Our state-of-the-art equipment is critical so we can identify ocular diseases that go beyond optometric care and refer to ophthalmology for treatment as needed. We have obtained new technology to provide full retina examinations without needing to be dilated.

Can you share a piece of advice?

If you care for patients as you would for your own family then your treatment will go beyond eyecare and form a lasting relationship, a bond of trust between you and the families you care for.

I hope, with Hashem’s help, to humbly provide excellent comprehensive eye care to all of my patients.

You can make an appointment to see Dr. Zuckerbrod at his new office by calling 410-864-2526 or by using the online schedule feature at www. idealfamilyeyecare.com.

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Tell us about yourself: I was born in Pittsburgh but my family relocated to Baltimore when I was very young. I first went to TA and then commuted to High School in Silver Spring. I continued my studies in Shaalvim for two years and then Yeshiva University. It was there I made the decision to combine my passion for science with a desire to help others and study medicine. I earned a masters in vision science and completed my doctorate at State University of New York school of Optometry. I moved back to Baltimore from NYC in December of 2010 to complete a rotation at the

What prompted you to open Ideal Family Eye Care?

I trained to treat many serious ocular conditions, and help patients of all ages. I have practiced optometry for more than ten years and I spent most of my career treating the pediatric population with refractive and amblyopic issues. This has been incredibly rewarding but I was not happy limiting my practice to one subset of the population. Additionally, my most recent opportunity to help others has been in a very different area of Baltimore. I started Ideal Family Eye Care to expand my scope and provide care for a wider range of people including people in my community. My goal is to provide quality examinations for all types of patients. That way I can di-

agnose, treat and manage diseases, injuries and disorders of the eye for all ages.

What makes ideal Family Eye Care unique?

Our warm, friendly and inviting team that is knowledgeable and eager to help. Our convenient location and accessible hours make us a logical choice. Our professionalism and respect for all ages and people of all abilities allows us to provide a bond of trust with our patients. Our sleek office and trendy frames assure our patients that they will look their best when they present their best face forward.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

613 Seconds with Dr. Abraham Zuckerbrod

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A

PIC T O RIA L

REV IEW

WIT S Ce l e b r a t e s New Sc i e n c e L a b

N e r Y i s r o e l ’s 8 9 t h A n n u a l Di n n e r IN REVIEW

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How many years has JEWELS been around?

JEWELS is now in its 13th year.

In 2012 we began with 2 classes and 13 students. Today, JEWELS has 11 classes and 75 students in 4 locations.

What is the highest grade in JEWELS?

Over the last few years, more and more organizations have opened to meet the needs of children with special education and special needs.

Has JEWELS had a role in this phase of community growth?

Many incredible visionaries helped pave the way for the expansion of services in our community. JEWELS

Do you have to be enrolled in JEWELS as a student to be treated by the therapy clinic?

All children can receive therapy at the JEWELS Therapy Clinic. In fact, JEWELS sends therapists to the many schools in the Baltimore community.

Many parents have engaged in the therapeutic services offered to take advantage of early intervention for their children and have been helped greatly by exceptional therapists with a keen eye for diagnostics.

Are there any other JEWELS Schools in the US? Actually, 3 schools have opened using the JEWELS model to create their own version. We are proud to have helped these new schools get off the ground and we continue to assist them whenever we can. It’s so gratifying to see other children and communities benefit from the trailblazing of the Baltimore community. We hope that more cities will jump on board.

We have been to your building and it is so beautiful and spacious.

Why are you embarking on a new capital campaign?

Thank you. We love our building. When JEWELS moved in 2020, we projected that the building would reach capacity in 7-10 years. BH, our communities’ growth has skyrocketed and our growth has reflected this. We are nearing capacity sooner than we anticipated. Therefore, we are going to be building an addition to our building. We must meet the ever-growing needs of our community.

That’s very exciting. Can you tell us about what this new building will offer?

The additional space will offer more classrooms, therapy rooms, a soft space play area for our 2 and 3-year-olds, and so much more. The feature of this building will be a stateof-the-art Hydro Therapy Pool. We envision that adults in need of such therapies will also make use of the facility.

Separate times for men and women will enable our community members to benefit from this very beneficial therapy.

The term special needs can be widely defined. What type of children typically attend JEWELS? JEWELS is proud to offer a preschool program with neurotypical children learning side by side with children who have special needs.

Some of our students have a wide variety of genetic conditions, health challenges, developmental delays, etc.

How does JEWELS address so many different types of children in the same school?

Help from above, Individualized attention, a 3:1 student-teacher ratio, and lots of love!

Are all 75 students in the JEWELS building?

55 of our students attend school in the “mother ship”. We are proud to partner with Bais Yaakov and Talmudical Academy of Baltimore where we have elementary and middle school-aged classes in both locations.

We call these our JEWELS Satellite classes. BY and TA are incredibly generous and inviting to our students.

Our students feel like they are part of the community. It’s incredible to see gestures of friendship and achdus displayed by the TA and BY staff and students. Sometimes I wonder who benefits more.

Thank you for your time and all of this exciting information. Our community is fortunate to have this JEWEL in our community. Please tell us about your upcoming campaign.

On January 15-17, JEWELS will launch its annual campaign. This campaign is vital to our success and viability. This campaign will also help us build our new addition. We hope that you will open your hearts (and pockets ) so that our JEWELS can continue to build brighter dreams!

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JEWELS uses a level system rather than a conventional grade number system. That said, the oldest students in JEWELS are currently 15 years old.

As our students continue to grow and develop, so do we. It’s amazing to see some of our students learning Gemora!

It’s just as incredible to see others (not so) simply write their name. Every day students are taking steps forward to be the best they can be with what Hashem has given them. Students celebrate their achievements along with their incredible teachers and therapists.

benefited from their efforts as well.

JEWELS too has helped bring these issues out of the shadows and helped our community see how important it is to champion the mission of inclusion.

The leadership of JEWELS is proud to have helped many of these organizations get started and enjoys working together with them to help our community.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

JEWELS has become a pillar of hope for so many families in our community. Parents with children who have special needs have one less concern knowing that there is a school that will help their child grow and thrive.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

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O CA 1 s t G r a d e S i d d u r C e l e b r a t i o n & M L K D a y

TA Se n i o r s Fa h e r e d a t N e r

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IN REVIEW

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Growing up, I was surrounded by family members who were deeply involved in the restaurant business in New York, so the food industry has been a part of my life from a young age. I initially moved to Baltimore to open Dougies Restaurant, marking the start of my ventures here.

BJH: That’s fascinating! What

BJH: That sounds wonderful. Could you elaborate on what makes your Shabbos catering packages unique?

Tzvi Landau: Absolutely. We pride ourselves on offering an extensive variety of Kiddush and Shabbos meal options. Our high-quality, onestop-shop approach ensures that families can fully enjoy their Simchas as honored guests. Our goal is to ensure that every event is a beautiful, seamless, enjoyable experience.

BJH: It’s clear that much thought goes into your services. How can those interested get in touch with you to book their upcoming event?

Tzvi Landau: Those interested in our Shabbos catering services can contact us via email at tzvi@cateringbyyaffa.com or call us directly at 443-228-6078. We’re committed to making each event a memorable and special occasion.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

BJH: We’re delighted to have you here. Tzvi, could you share with us your journey into the restaurant and food industry, and what inspired you to establish your business in Baltimore?

Tzvi Landau: It’s a pleasure to be here, thank you. My journey into the culinary world began in childhood.

specific services are you currently offering?

Tzvi Landau: Currently our division of Yaffa Catering specializes in Shabbos catering services. Our offerings include a wide range of Kiddush and Shabbos meal options, meticulously designed presented beautifully, and served by a professional team of waiters for those celebrating a simcha on Shabbos.

BJH: Catering is such a dynamic and creative field. What aspects of it do you find most enjoyable?

There’s so much about catering that I enjoy. From the fast-paced kitchen environment to working closely with clients to bring the vision of their Simcha to life, as well as the creativity involved in developing new menu items, displays, and collaborating with new vendors and venues. Each aspect keeps me engaged and makes my work immensely enjoyable.

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B CL’s Si x t h Se a s o n B e g i n s

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TA H a s c h o l a s G e m a r a

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of top Hamas officials.

On Wednesday, the IDF, in a statement, called the network an “underground terror city” with a “strategic tunnel route connected to other significant underground infrastructure in the Gaza Strip.”

It is no secret that Hamas has terrorist tunnels beneath the feet of its civilians, but Israel’s ground campaign has revealed just how large its underground network is. Earlier in December, the IDF found a tunnel beneath northern Gaza which spanned 2.5 miles and was wide enough for a car to fit. The Israeli army uncovered footage of Mohammad Sinwar, the Hamas leader’s brother, driving a car in the tunnel.

A True Act of Forgiveness Hidden beneath the Palestine Square in Gaza City was a large network of Hamas tunnels connected to various locations. On Thursday, December 21, the IDF announced that its Yahalom combat engineering unit and the 401st Armored Brigade had completely destroyed those tunnels.

The tunnel network is said to have hosted Hamas leaders Muhammad Deif and Yahya Sinwar at the time of the October 7th terrorist attacks on southern Israel. Before the network’s demolition, the IDF gave several media outlets a tour of Palestine Square and the tunnels’ openings.

Before the Israel-Hamas war broke out, several Hamas leaders were based physically in Palestine Square, which is in Gaza City’s upper-class Rimal neighborhood. The busy retail area had effectively concealed the terror group’s underground affairs. During the tour of the square, IDF officials showed the media a penthouse apartment where senior Hamas official Ismail Hainiyeh’s daughter lived, as well as a community college, Hamas government buildings, and more.

Within the tunnels, there were blast doors and places where one could live, the military said. In some places, the IDF found food and water supplies abandoned in the tunnels. The tunnels were connected to the living quarters

Iris Haim, the mother of 28-yearold hostage Yotam Haim, who was mistakenly killed by Israeli soldiers on December 15, met with one of the soldiers who was in the battalion who mistakenly shot Haim and two other hostages.

Haim’s mother told the soldiers via a voice recording that she places no blame upon them for the death of her son. The next day, a soldier who was in the battalion came to visit her.

“I am Yotam’s mother. I wanted to tell you that I love you very much, and I hug you here from afar,” she said in the message. “I know that everything that happened is absolutely not your fault, and nobody’s fault except that of Hamas, may their name be wiped out and their memory erased from the earth.

“I want you to look after yourselves and to think all the time that you are doing the best thing in the world, the best thing that could happen, that could help us. Because all the people of Israel and all of us need you healthy,” Iris said in the recording, urging the soldiers to not hesitate if they think

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The Week In News they see a terrorist. She then invited the soldiers to visit her, adding that no one in her family – not her, her husband, her daughter, or Yotam’s brother – would judge or be upset at them.

“We received your message, and since then we have been able to function again,” said the soldier who visited her. “Before that, we had shut down.”

According to the IDF, while in Gaza, Alon Shamriz, Yotam Haim, and Samar Talalka held up signs that read “SOS” and “Help, 3 hostages.” Upon seeing the battalion, the three abductees began moving towards the soldiers to ask for help. The IDF soldiers didn’t know the three were hostages and thus shot at them.

In order to prevent a devastating occurrence such as this from happening again, the Israeli military has shown its soldiers images of the abductees who are still in Gaza so that the soldiers will know what the hostages look like.

Of the 240 people who were abducted by Hamas on October 7, 129 are still in Gaza, some of whom were murdered while in captivity; 105 were released as part of a short-lived truce

that ended on December 1.

Determining the Fate of Hostages

The Health Ministry has selected Dr. Hagar Mizrahi and Prof. Ofer Merin, who head the National Center of Forensic Medicine and Shaare Zedek Medical Center respectively, to lead a new medical committee that was formed to assess which hostages were killed by Hamas.

There is an unspeakable trauma

to living life without the certainty of knowing if your loved one is still alive, said Merin.

“In these weeks, I learned the term ‘ambiguous loss.’ It’s the continuous grief day after day of living with uncertainty, always with a slim hope that maybe their loved one is alive or just wounded or okay,” the professor said.

“There is a clear understanding that these people need the closure. If we know for sure that someone is dead, I think we’re doing right by these families by telling them.”

By employing a variety of investigative methods, the medical committee is able to confirm hostage deaths with absolute certainty.

“Some of the initial materials we worked with were videos from inside Israel, such as footage from security cameras from kibbutzim and villages,” Merin said during an interview with The Times of Israel. “If a person who was shot is seen lying on the ground in the same exact spot showing no movement at the 7am mark, at 9am, at 11am, and at 1pm, and is then seen being thrown into a car, you can make some conclusions.”

However, mere footage is not enough to declare that a hostage passed away, he added. There must be “at least two sources of information,” he said, adding that they will never consider evidence that comes from photographs or information released

by Hamas. Additionally, they will not jump to the conclusion that a hostage died just because they were critically injured at the time of their abduction.

“We have no way of knowing whether, when, or even if they received medical treatment. We don’t know the quality of the treatment and whether they survived or not,” Merin said.

Lastly, he added, the committee does not rely on testimony of a hostage’s wellbeing, even if the testimony came from fellow hostages.

“There was a case where a returned hostage said she was in a medical place and next to her there was a hostage who was alive, but the next day he wasn’t. We will not go on something like this,” he said, adding that he cannot give exact details on how his team acquires the intelligence and evidence required to determine the wellbeing of a hostage.

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The Week In News Upon making a final decision, the committee writes up a report in which it shows evidence of how it made its decision, and, if the victim was a soldier, it submits the report to the IDF Rabbinate. If the victim was a civilian, both the IDF Rabbinate and Israel’s Chief Rabbinate must authorize the report.

“We give the rabbis the protocol, which explains how we reached the determination of death, but it does not include the actual intelligence material we referred to,” said Merin.

Iranian Commander Killed According to Iranian media, a senior officer in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was killed on Monday in an alleged Israeli airstrike in the Syrian capital of Damascus.

The semi-official Iranian Tasnim news agency said that Brig. Gen. Razi Mousavi was killed in a strike in the

Damascus suburb of Sayeda Zeinab.

Iran’s president Ebrahim Raisi vowed that Israel “will certainly pay for this crime.”

“Without a doubt, this action is another sign of frustration, helplessness, and incapacity of the usurping Zionist regime in the region,” Raisi said in a statement.

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian tweeted that “Tel Aviv faces a tough countdown.”

Mousavi was responsible for coordinating the military alliance between Iran and Syria and was believed by Israel to be heavily involved in Tehran’s efforts to supply weapons to terror proxies in the area, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah terror group. He had been living in Syria for the past 30 years and had his own office in the Syrian Defense Ministry.

Hezbollah commented that it regards the killing as a “flagrant and shameless violation, which is off limits,” according to Iran’s state-owned Press TV. Israel has not yet admitted to killing the terrorist. Still, Israel has been

hitting at Hezbollah targets in Lebanon as the Iran-backed terror group has been sending rocket fire into northern Israel.

The Tasnim report said Mousavi was “one of the oldest advisors of IRGC in Syria” and was close to former IRGC Quds force head, Qassem Soleimani, who was killed in a 2020 U.S. drone strike in Iraq.

At the beginning of the month, Iran said two IRGC officers were killed in an attack in the area of the Syrian capital, and blamed Israel. The IRGC said Mohammad Ali Atai Shoorcheh and Panah Taghizadeh were “martyred” while on an advisory mission to Syria, blaming the “Zionists” for their death. At the time, Syria said Israeli

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The Week In News Now, Strauss has announced that it has new packing for Elite Turkish coffee, adding an Israeli flag to the red bag and including patriotic slogans such as “The victory generation,” “Stronger together” and “Am Yisrael Chai.”

The coffee is not connected to the country of Turkey; it is meant to make Turkish-style coffee. Still, Israelis were calling for the company to change the branding on the product.

“Demand for coffee has been high since the start of the war,” Strauss Israel Coffee CEO Avi Laufer noted. “There were posts that asked us to change the name to ‘Israeli coffee’ because of the calls to boycott products from Turkey.

We wanted to clarify that there’s no connection between [our] Turkish coffee and Turkey. The coffee beans come from coffee producing nations like Brazil, Vietnam and Ethiopia.”

The company also changed the packaging to raise moral in Israel, especially for soldiers fighting in Gaza, who drink the Elite Turkish coffee because it’s easy to make in the field.

This is not the first time that Israelis knocked the Turkish coffee. In

2014, during the flotilla incident in which Turkey sided with Hamas, Israelis wanted to rename Turkish coffee “Israeli coffee.”

Sinwar: Hamas Won’t Surrender Hamas is not surrendering, the terror group’s leader Yahya Sinwar announced on Monday.

Hamas is facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, he said. But Sinwar was defiant, claiming that the terror group is on its way to crushing the IDF. He added that Hamas will not submit to “the occupation’s conditions.”

Sinwar falsely claimed that the al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing

of Hamas, had “targeted” over 5,000 Israeli soldiers and officers, and killed about third of them — that is, over 1,500.

So far, according to the IDF, 156 IDF soldiers have been killed in the ground operations in Gaza. More than 300 members of the security forces were killed in Hamas’s initial October 7 onslaught.

The terror leader also gave inflated claims of the number of Israeli soldiers injured in the war and the amount of Israeli military equipment that has been destroyed. He claimed that around 3,500 troops were seriously wounded or disabled, whereas that figure according to the IDF stands at less than 200.

Sinwar also said that Hamas had completely or partially destroyed 750 Israeli military vehicles. The IDF, last month, said that very few IDF vehicles had been severely damaged beyond repair, and that most vehicles that are hit return to fighting.

On Friday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said that the IDF has been “gradually achieving” its goals in north-

ern Gaza and is continuing operations in the Khan Younis area in the south of the Strip.

He also issued a renewed personal threat against Sinwar, saying he would soon “meet the barrels of our guns.”

On Sunday, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s three primary goals for the war with Hamas: to destroy Hamas, remove it from power in Gaza, and release the hostages being held by the terror group.

“We are deepening the war in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. “We will continue to fight until complete victory over Hamas.

That is the only way to bring back the hostages, to eliminate Hamas, and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel.”

Netanyahu acknowledged the “very heavy toll” that the war was taking on IDF soldiers.

“We are doing everything to protect the lives of our fighters,” Netanyahu said. “But one thing we will not do — we will not stop until we achieve victory.”

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The Week In News 20,000 people have been killed in Gaza. Israel says that the IDF has killed around 8,000 terrorists in Gaza.

Another 1,000 Hamas terrorists were killed in Israel on October 7, during the massacre.

Brotherly Love

Timothy Emerick is the best brother around.

The North Carolinian had bought two identical Powerball tickets due to a clerk’s error. But there were no tears from Emerick after he won two $100,000 prizes from the winning

numbers.

Emerick works in BJ’s. It was there that he bought the tickets from his coworker.

“The gentleman at the store accidentally printed two tickets with the same numbers so I just decided to buy them both,” Emerick recalled.

What to do with the double bounty? Emerick’s parents taught him well. He plans on giving the second ticket to his brother.

“I always said if I won, I would share it with him,” Emerick said.

He said his brother has definitely earned the prize.

“Over the years, whenever I’ve needed him, he’s been there,” Emerick said. “I think he’d do the same thing if the situation was reversed.”

That’s what we call brotherly love.

Put on a Ring On It Bailey Davis was overjoyed when her fiancé gifted her with a sparkling engagement ring. But just two weeks

after the proposal, David lost the ring at a rest stop, much to her dismay.

She frantically went back to the area to look for the sparkler, but it wasn’t there.

“I just went back home. I didn’t even work that day. I just went back home. I went to bed,” she said.

Davis said that realizing she might lose her ring forever made her “sick.”

Despite having insurance on it and knowing that “it was likely all going to be OK,” she was sad that any other ring wouldn’t be the one that her fiancé proposed with.

Despondent, Davis posted her loss on Facebook, asking anyone who had any knowledge of the lost ring to contact her.

Thankfully, Coty Warren came to her rescue.

Warren had gone into the same rest stop as Davis. The men’s bathroom was being cleaned, so Warren entered the single-family bathroom.

He was washing his hands when he saw a ring on the counter.

Thinking he could possibly find the person it belonged to, Warren took the ring and put it on his truck dashboard.

He thought it was fake.

“It didn’t even look real. It looked like it was like costume jewelry at first because it was so big and extravagant,” he said.

The next day, he came across the post Davis put on Facebook.

“I called her up and I said, “Well, I guess tonight’s your lucky night.’ She was very ecstatic,” he said.

Davis was overjoyed when reuniting with her ring. Warren, for his part, declined the $1,000 reward she offered him.

“I feel what goes around comes around and you do good deeds upon others, it’ll come back to you tenfold,” he said.

That certainly has a ring of truth to it.

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Venezuela Prisoner Exchange

The United States has released a close ally of President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela in exchange for 10 jailed Americans, including six designated as

wrongfully detained.

Alex Saab, who has been accused by the United States of “profiting from starvation” of Venezuelans, is a Colombian businessperson and financial fixer for Maduro. He was indicted in 2019 in connection with a bribery scheme that siphoned an estimated $350 million from a Venezuelan government housing project.

Among the Americans released were Jerrel Kenemore and Eyvin Hernandez, who had been arrested in March 2022; Joseph Cristella, who was arrested in Venezuela in September 2022; and Savoi Wright, a businessperson from California whose family said he had been wrongfully detained after the FBI learned in October that he had been arrested. The United States had designated them all as wrongfully detained.

Senior U.S. officials declined to reveal details about the other Americans who were released, but they said the exchange meant that all the Americans believed to be wrongfully detained in Venezuela had been freed.

As a part of the agreement, Venezuela also agreed to return to the United

States former defense contractor Leonard Glenn Francis, known as Fat Leonard, who is at the center of one of the U.S. Navy’s largest corruption cases. He was set to be sentenced last year but escaped house arrest in September 2022 and fled to Venezuela. Maduro will also release 20 Venezuelan political prisoners, as well as Roberto Abdul, an opposition leader in Venezuela, U.S. officials said. The arrest warrants of three other Venezuelans were also suspended.

The deal came after months of negotiations between President Joe Biden and Maduro’s top officials, which were brokered by Qatar, according to U.S. officials. It comes as the Biden administration tries to improve relations with the authoritarian government in Caracas.

The United States recently restarted deportation flights to Venezuela and agreed to lift some sanctions after the Maduro administration agreed to take tentative steps toward free and fair elections.

“It looks like Maduro, so far, is keeping his commitment on a free election,” Biden told reporters. “But it ain’t done yet. We’ve got a long way to go. But it’s good so far.” (© The New

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42

Torah Thought

Living in Reality

By Rabbi Zvi Teichman

T

he Holy Maggid of Kozhnitz observes that in the portions of Miketz and Vayigash, where the entire drama between the brothers and the ‘viceroy’ in Egypt plays out, there is not one usage of the Name ‫ה‬-‫ו‬-‫ה‬-‫י‬, the Tetragrammaton, the name that signifies G-d’s compassion.

The first time it appears is at the conclusion of Yaakov’s blessing to Dan, where a reference is made to Shimshon when he appealed to G-d to provide him the strength to avenge the Pelishtim, uttering the prayer‫לישועתך‬ ‫ה‬-‫ו‬-‫ה‬-‫ — קויתי י‬For your salvation do I long, O Hashem!)‫(רבינו בחיי‬ The Maggid explains that throughout that episode, the G-d of Compassion seemed absent. Certainly, though, He was very much present, albeit ‘hidden’, orchestrating the events for the ultimate benefit of His children, which will become apparent when the final salvation transpires.

What is it about the tragic end of Shimshon and his final appeal to G-d for salvation, that embodies for all of history until the final redemption, the secret to survival and the maintaining of hope and positivity even in the darkest of times?

Yaakov Avinu had originally intended to reveal to his children the ‘End of Days’ but it was withheld from him. G-d feared that the knowledge of the exact time might lead to complacency, or worse, to despondency during the long wait. Only by living a

life of faith and hope could one assure the survival of the legacy of the patriarchs until the final redemption. One who lives with that trust can sense His compassion, even in the most trying of times.

Each day we pray in the Amidah for the coming of Moshiach, paraphrasing this sentiment, asking G-d to ‘speedily cause to flourish Your servant David, ‫כי לישועתך קוינו כל היום‬ — for we hope for your salvation all day long.

Is it simply living with hope alone that will compel G-d to bring him?

Doesn’t it require self-improvement and total allegiance in the performance of the mitzvos as enumerated in Torah?

We are taught that after our sojourn in this physical realm we will be asked several critical questions to see if we deserve reward in the World to Come. Did we deal honestly with our fellow man? Did we set times for daily Torah study? Did we try to bring children into the world?

faith that Moshiach will come but not be overly eager for that moment yet?

Is it such a terrible contradiction?

In Pirkei Shirah, the Song of the Universe, it records the seven ‘calls’ of the rooster as each new day arrives.

His fourth call is this very verse, ‫לישו־‬ ‫ה‬-‫ו‬-‫ה‬-‫ — עתך קויתי י‬For your salvation do I long, O Hashem!

Why of all creatures is this call unique specifically to the rooster?

The Midrash compares the infamous Bilaam to the rooster. They both know with accuracy the moment of G-d’s ire. He too, ‘called’ out seven times, attempting to prophesy the doom of the Jewish people.

His fourth ‘call’ includes the verse, I shall see Him, but not now, I shall look at Him, but it is not near. ‫(במדבר‬ )‫כד יז‬ The Midrash says this verse was a response to the Jewish people who approached Bilaam requesting of him to reveal to them the End of Time.

The fourth question one will be asked is whether ‫ — צפית לישועה‬Did you long for salvation?

He seems to write off the issue by saying it is irrelevant since it is so far away in the future.

Why is this so significant? If I followed every detail in Torah with commitment, consistency, and accuracy, but did not quite yearn for redemption, will it reflect so badly on all the good I have done?

The Midrash goes on to report how G-d turns to His people asking them, “Is this your attitude?!” G-d informs them how Bilaam has no interest in ‘salvation’ and they would be better off emulating their illustrious ancestor Yaakov who declared ‘For your salvation do I long, O Hashem!’, encour-

Can’t one believe with absolute

aging them to long for the salvation because it is close!)‫(שמות רבה ל כד‬ The Talmud describes how the longing for the day of redemption is likened to the rooster who eagerly anticipates the arrival of daylight, crowing with delight.):‫(סנהדרין צח‬ The rooster knows with certainty the sun will rise. He has no doubt and lives in that reality. He longs eagerly each day to crow at the precise moments instinctive to him.

No one ever goes to sleep convincing oneself maybe upon the next morn the sun will rise a few hours later and gain some extra sleep.

But often we choose to waste our time on endeavors that while away the hours, leaving us little time to sleep.

We know the morning will come but refuse to face that reality, choosing to indulge in immediate gratification, ignoring the consequences of our choices.

When one ‘lives’ one’s beliefs, one eagerly tackles what must be faced with a sense of purpose and commitment.

Bilaam knew the inevitable but selected to not let it interfere with his immediate desires, despite knowing very well there will be an accountability. He blocked reality from playing a role in his wants.

The rooster thrills in its existence, performing each day with the same

43

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If we believe Moshiach can arrive at any moment and relish the opportunities that await us in that new world, we will live inspired by, and attentive to, those hopes and aspirations.

If we truly live yearning for salvation, could we ever be comfortable engaging in venues or activities foreign to those strivings?

Shimshon despite finding himself in desperate circumstances never stopped living with his greatest hopes and aspirations. Hope springs eternal for those who fully believe in G-d and the promises of delight in this or the next world that await those who aspire for His closeness.

We will be asked not simply if we believed or even wanted redemption, rather we will be evaluated to see if those beliefs permeated our actions to live with a sanctity and holiness that accompanies us in all our endeavors.

Several years ago, a story was told about a farmer who had recently ‘returned’ to faith and decided to observe the laws of Shemittah, fully without compromise. On the Erev Yom Kippur of that year, a fire broke out in his vast olive orchard, threatening to destroy his entire crop. He could see the fires raging but knew there wasn’t ample time to put it out without violating the impending Yom Tov. He chose to put it out of his mind and devote himself to the avodah of Yom Kippur, saying to himself, in the spirit of the day, “kapparat avonot” — may this be an atonement for my sins.

After Yom Kippur he inspected the damage, discovering the totally charred grove, with the trees in jeopardy of dying. Experts suggested trimming the trees and possibly salvaging the roots. He inquired of his Rav if this was permitted. After delving into the issue, he was told that it wasn’t a simple issue, but considering the extreme loss there was room to be lenient.

He decided to leave the trees as is.

Miraculously, several months later, the blackened trees began sprouting green leaves, beginning to recover.

Over that time his daughter survived a terrible car accident, leaving unscathed.

Eventually his Rav asked him what motivated him to be strict even though he was dispensed a lenient ruling.

He responded by sharing that since he became observant, he dreamed daily how one day the oil he produced from his coveted orchard would be worthy to be used for the Menorah, when Moshiach would come and restore the Temple. He knew that for the Temple use, the oil they would select would not only have to be the purest, but also free from any halachic doubt and possible taint.

When one lives within true reality — not misled by the illusory world of easy enticements that, as Bilaam, blinds us from seeing the absolute and compelling truth of Torah — one’s whole life experience is infused with a spirit of purity that elevates us, enthuses us, and protects us.

May we crow with joy with each opportunity that G-d sends our way, bringing the hope of salvation into our lives, eager and worthy to greet the Moshiach at any given moment.

You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ohelmoshebaltimore.com

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M-F S, T, W, F T, W, F S T, W, F T, W, F S S T, W, F S-F M-F S, T, W, F S, M, TH T, W, F M-F T, W, F M-F

7:05 AM Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) 7:15 AM Kedushas Yisrael Kol Torah Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah Ner Israel Rabbinical College

M, TH S S S, T, W, F S-F S-F

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7:20 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Beth Tfiloh Congregation Kol Torah Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Shomrei Emunah Congregation

M, TH M-F M-F M, TH M, TH

7:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring Agudath Israel of Baltimore Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation Chabad of Park Heights Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh Darchei Tzedek Kedushas Yisrael Khal Bais Nosson Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Shomrei Emunah Congregation

S S, T, W, F S S-F S-F S S S S S-F S S-F S S-F S-F S, T, W, F T, W, F

7:45 AM Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation Talmudical Academy Darchei Tzedek Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah Mesivta Kesser Torah Mesivta Shaarei Chaim 7:50 AM Derech Chaim Ner Tamid Ohel Moshe

M-F S-F M-F S-F S-F S-F S S M-F

8:00 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Beth Abraham Darchei Tzedek Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Kehillas Meor HaTorah Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Ohel Yakov Ohr Yisroel Pikesville Jewish Congregation Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation The Shul at the Lubavitch Center Tiferes Yisroel Tzeirei Anash Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah

S-F S S S S S-F S S S S S-F S S S S-F

8:15 AM Kehilath B'nai Torah Kol Torah Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 8:20 AM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim 8:30 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Ohel Moshe Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Shomrei Emunah Congregation Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh 8:45 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 9:00 AM Aish Kodesh Agudath Israel of Baltimore Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Beth Tfiloh Congregation Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah Shomrei Emunah Congregation Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim 9:15 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 9:30 AM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 9:45 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 10:00AM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

S S S-F S-F S-F S-F S-F S S S-F S S-F S S-F S S S S-F S S-F S-F S-F S-F S-F S-F

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Khal Ahavas Yisroel/Tzemach Tzedek 12:30 PM Kol Torah 12:50 PM One South Street, 27th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 1:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) 10055 Red Run Blvd Suite 295 Milk & Honey Bistro 1777 Reisterstown RD 1:25 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim 1:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) 1:45 PM Ohel Moshe 2:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Big Al @ The Knish Shop Party Room Kol Torah Market Maven Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Reischer Minyan 15 Walker Ave 2nd Floor Snider Law Firm 600 Reistersown Rd 7th floor 2:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (Sunday) Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh Tov Pizza Mincha Minyan Ner Israel Rabbinical College Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building) Shearith Israel Congregation 2:45 PM Kollel of Greenspring 3:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 3:05 PM Kedushas Yisrael 3:15 PM Hat Box 3:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (Sunday) 4:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th) Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

Mincha/Maariv Before Shkiah Aish Kodesh Agudath Israel of Baltimore Agudah of Greenspring Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Beth Abraham Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation Darchei Tzedek Kehillas Meor HaTorah Kehilath B’nai Torah Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Machzikei Torah (Sternhill’s) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Ner Tamid Ohel Moshe Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Ohr Yisroel Pikesville Jewish Congregation Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation Shomrei Mishmeres Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel The Shul at the Lubavitch Center Tiferes Yisroel

Maariv

6:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 6:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 7:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah 7:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 8:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 8:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 8:45 PM Darchei Tzedek Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) Ohr Yisroel

Maariv continued

8:50 PM Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building) 8:55 PM Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh 9:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Arugas Habosem Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah Shomrei Emunah Congregation Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim 9:20 PM Kol Torah 9:30 PM Agudah of Greenspring Agudath Israel of Baltimore Kedushas Yisrael Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 9:40 PM Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] 9:45 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Kollel Erev Birchas Yitzchok (Luries) Kollel of Greenspring Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah 9:50 PM Aish Kodesh Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh Ohel Moshe 10:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Darchei Tzedek Kehilath B'nai Torah Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation 10:05 PM Kol Torah 10:10 PM Ner Israel Rabbinical College 10:15 PM Derech Chaim Khal Bais Nosson 10:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 11:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah Agudah of Greenspring - 6107 Greenspring Ave Agudath Israel of Baltimore - 6200 Park Heights Ave Ahavat Shalom - 3009 Northbrook Rd Aish Kodesh - 6207 Ivymount Rd Arugas HaBosem - 3509 Cwlarks Ln Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim - 3120 Clarks Ln Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore - 6823 Old Pimlico Rd Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh - 6618 Deancroft Rd Beit Yaakov - 3615 Seven Mile Ln Beth Abraham - 6208 Wallis Ave Beth Tfiloh Congregation - 3300 Old Court Rd Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation - 6602 Park Heights Ave Chabad of Park Heights - 3402 Clarks Ln Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh - 3800 Labyrinth Rd Darchei Tzedek - 3201 Seven Mile Ln Derech Chaim - 6229 Greenspring Ave (Weekday) Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue 6611 Greenspring Ave. Kedushas Yisrael - 6004 Park Heights Ave Kehilath B’nai Torah - 6301 Green Meadow Pkwy Kehillas Meor HaTorah - 6539 Pebble Brooke Rd Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek - 6811 Park Heights Ave Khal Bais Nosson - 2901 Taney Rd Kol Torah - 2929 Fallstaff Rd Kollel of Greenspring - 6504 Greenspring Ave. Machzikei Torah - 6216 Biltmore Ave Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah - 6500 Baythorne Rd Mesivta Kesser Torah - 8400 Park Heights Ave Mesivta Shaarei Chaim - 3702 Fords Ln Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah - 7000 Rockland Hills Dr Neuberger, Quinn, Gielen, Rubin & Gibber One South Street, 27th Floor Ner Israel Rabbinical College - 400 Mt Wilson Ln Ner Tamid - 6214 Pimlico Road Ohel Moshe - 2808 Smith Ave Ohel Yakov - 3200 Glen Ave Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] - 6813 Park Heights Ave Ohr Yisroel - 2429 Lightfoot Dr Pikesville Jewish Congregation - 7644 Carla Rd Shearith Israel Congregation - 5835 Park Heights Ave Shomrei Emunah Congregation - 6221 Greenspring Ave Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh - 2821 W Strathmore Ave Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim - 7504 Seven Mile Ln Talmudical Academy - 4445 Old Court Rd The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel - 5915 Park Heights Ave The Shul at the Lubavitch Center - 6701 Old Pimlico Rd Tiferes Yisroel - 6201 Park Heights Ave Tzeirei Anash - 6706 Cross County Blvd Wealcatch Insurance - 37 Walker Ave 2nd floor Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah - 6819 Williamson Ave

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7:00 AM Aish Kodesh (upstairs Minyan) Agudath Israel of Baltimore Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Kol Torah Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh The Shul at the Lubavitch Center Tiferes Yisroel

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

6:20 AM Agudah of Greenspring M, TH Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S-F Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F Kehilath B'nai Torah M, TH Shomrei Emunah Congregation S, M, TH 6:25 AM The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel T, W, F 6:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring T, W, F Chabad of Park Heights M-F Darchei Tzedek M-F Kehilath B'nai Torah T, W, F Khal Bais Nosson M-F Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek M-F Kol Torah T, W, F Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah M-F Ohr Yisroel M-F Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F 6:35 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) M, TH Ohel Moshe M, TH 6:40 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) T, W, F Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M, TH 6:45 AM B”H and Mesivta of Baltimore (Dirshu Minyan) S-F Beth Abraham M, TH Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue M-F Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F Ner Tamid M-F Ohel Moshe T, W, F Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim M-F 6:50 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] M, TH Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh M, TH Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation T, W, F Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh M, TH Derech Chaim M-F Kol Torah M-F Ohel Moshe S Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH The Shul at the Lubavitch Center M, TH 6:55 AM Beth Abraham T, W, F Kol Torah M, TH

7:15 AM Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel Tzeirei Anash

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49

Annual Campaign January 7-8, 2024

January 19-20, 2024

Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Annual Campaign and Community Celebratory Shabbos being there for each other.

The incredible leadership of Rabbi and Rebbetzin Rose has continued to move our shul forward with these values at our core. The Rav and Rebbetzin have been there for all our members, of all ages and backgrounds, sharing their wisdom and warmth and vision, however and whenever needed. In turn, they continue to inspire other shul leaders, providing an energy of passion that carries through to everything the shul does. With this energy, our shul continues to grow and flourish.

This year, it is an honor to pay tribute to the remarkable leadership of Mr. and Mrs. Phil and Rivka Bogart. As our esteemed former shul president and first lady, the Bogarts have woven the threads of Torah, vision, and community connection. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have greatly supported BJSZ as a Shul of unity and growth. The Bogarts’ joined the shul in 2000 shortly after the merger of Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion. The initial attractions were Rabbi and Rebbetzin Hauer and the youth program, and there love for the Shul has continued with Rabbi and Rebbetzin Rose at the helm and the ever expanding and dynamic youth department. As said over

by Phil and Rivka, “Rabbi Rose constantly seeks ways to enrich our lives with Torah, Tefilla, and Chesed. And, equally important, the shul is warm and friendly. Our

Andrew & Lenie Singer, Naftali & Sheina Hollander, Jacob & Kaila Schonland, Moshe & Peninah Couzens, Yaacov Singer, Dovid Singer

legacy award membership is diverse, we live in different neighborhoods, have different backgrounds and are at different stages of life. Plus, we have a beautiful davening. The list goes on. And, over the last 20 years, the shul continued to grow and expand its programing and opportunities for growth. Simply stated, BJSZ is vibrant. And, since we are both from out of town communities (CT and TX), we feel very much at home at BJSZ.” The Bogarts’ influence has become an integral part of the tapestry that shapes the identity of Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion.

The active membership of families across various generations plays a crucial role in shaping the warm and welcoming community that BJSZ has become. It is our greatest pleasure to honor the Singer family, Andrew and Lenie Singer, and their esteemed children and their spouses: Naftali & Sheina Hollander, Jacob & Kaila Schonland, Moshe & Peninah Couzens, Yaacov Singer, and Dovid Singer.

Through multiple generations, the Singers have been dedicated members, leaders, and connectors of our shul. Andrew and Lenie have cultivated a tradition of energetic engagement towards the klal which has continued to be embodied by their children. Outside of Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion, the Singers have volunteered with Talmudical Academy, JobLink, and Bikur Cholim.

Andrew has used his experience in

business to voluntarily conduct interview coaching, helping dozens of young people in Baltimore’s Jewish community take their initial professional steps. Lenie has also used her professional background to offer dating coaching for several years as a chessed. Their children are involved in the community as well as in various torah opportunities throughout Baltimore. Perhaps the best example of the Singers’ dedication to Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion happens each week. Shabbos morning frequently finds some combination of Andrew, his father, his sons, and his sons-inlaw davening side by side at Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion. We express our heartfelt appreciation for the Singer family’s profound impact and look forward to witnessing the ongoing chapters they will contribute to the beautiful fabric of our Shul.

Now, we extend our call to each one of you to lend a hand in continuing to weave the tapestry of our Shul. Stand with us and ensure the longevity of BJSZ for years to come. Contribute now towards our sustained journey, continuing until the final redemption with the arrival of Mashiach, when Am Yisrael and the Eretz Yisrael will know no more pain and suffering.

To place an ad in honor of the Bogart or Singer Families and/or to make a reservation to join us at our Special Event, where Eitan Katz will be performing, please go to www.bjszdinner.com.

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s a Shul, Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion (BJSZ) is dedicated to honoring an environment where individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds can collectively flourish.

This forms our tapestry of legacy and leadership that our shul has upheld for over a century, and endeavor to continue weaving for generations to come. With all that the Jewish people are experiencing today, we understand more than ever how important it is to come together in unity. With your support, we will continue to come together for tefilah, for friendship, for Torah and for Eretz Yisroel.

We have always strived to be a resource for the multifaceted members of our community, embracing shared values and objectives. Our objective of engaging the young, the old, and everyone in between is met through our uplifting minyanim, shiurim, women’s classes, kollel learning, educational lectures, and youth programming. How do we know that we continue to be successful? On Shabbos morning, the doors open to an animated crowd of families, and the seats in shul display the beautiful scene of grandparents, parents and children sitting and davening together. What unites us is our devotion to the Torah, our striving to find the Torah’s value in every aspect of life, our joy and passion and acharyas, and our commitment to community and to

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

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Phil & Rivka Bogart

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50

Mental Health Corner

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

Change

By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman “Whatever circumstances one may be in, whether poor or rich, healthy or sick, there is no person who cannot see wonders and numerous benefits in his situation.

For the rich and healthy man is already indebted to Hashem for his wealth and health. The poor man is indebted to Him that even in his poverty, He provides sustenance through miracles and wonders, not leaving him to die of hunger. The sick man is indebted to Hashem for He strengthens him in the weight of his illness or injuries, and does not leave him to descend to the grave. Likewise, for all similar conditions, there is not a single person who will not find himself indebted to his Creator.”

These are the words of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzatto, the Ramchal, in his famous work, the Mesilas Yesharim (Chapter 8).

The Ramchal is definitely one who can speak from experience, as his life was full of setbacks and tragedies. He was falsely accused of being a follower of Shabesai Tzvi, most of his manuscripts were burned by his enemies, and was chased out of many communities. In spite of all of this,

he clearly maintained a cheerful disposition to the degree that in his magnum opus he declared that every person’s heart should be filled with gratitude for all of the goodness showered on him from Hashem, no matter the circumstances that life has put in his way.

If psychotherapy had the ability to reframe your outlook on life to match that of the Ramchal’s, then you will have solved the vast majority of emotional suffering.

Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Nevertheless, one of the goals of therapy is to move you along in that direction as much as possible, although the methods used to get there vary greatly in the various modalities.

Many people enter therapy with the goal of learning how to create change in their family, friends, or even their boss.

The only person you can really change is yourself. When you change your beliefs, behaviors, and reactions, you might ultimately find that those around you change as well, but that is the icing on the cake and is not always achievable. Hence, the

word “psychotherapy” means healing of the soul, as this is the ultimate change that therapy aims to achieve.

There is one specific therapeutic modality that deals directly with one’s negative thoughts, and that is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The process of correcting those thoughts is known as cognitive restructuring. CBT focuses on cognitive distortions such as all-or-nothing thinking (“If I cheated on my diet even once, then I have zero self-control”), overgeneralizations (“All people are selfish”), filtering (such as only remembering the negative feedback and not the positive), emotional reasoning (“I feel unloved, so I must be unlovable”), and the list goes on. The goal of cognitive restructuring is to identify these thoughts and to learn how to question them and to ultimately correct them. The result being that these depressing thoughts will no longer be so tormenting.

Other therapeutic modalities question the wisdom of going directly to the maladaptive thoughts and ignoring the psychological underpinnings of those

thoughts and feelings. For example, if one’s parents were neglectful and abusive, one may very well feel unlovable even if he or she fully recognizes the illogical nature of those thoughts. Deeper work would be needed to heal those early wounds.

The bottom line is that our reality is viewed through the lens of our minds and souls. A therapist who can help you make changes in your mind and soul is in essence helping you create for yourself a new reality without changing any of the objective facts that you face on a daily basis.

The age-old question if the glass is half empty or half full might not really apply to a situation where your glass is mostly empty. However, the Ramchal might tell you that you just need a smaller glass.

This is a service of Relief Resources.

Relief is an organization that provides mental health referrals, education, and support to the frum community. Rabbi Yisrael Slansky is director of the Baltimore branch of Relief. He can be contacted at 410-448-8356 or at yslansky@reliefhelp. org

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Tech

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

Screen Free for Thirty As Told to Rebbetzin Sara Gross

T

his past Chanukah over 1600

participants from 315 families took part in TAG Baltimore’s “Screen Free for 30” program and raffle.

Families committed to a half hour of family time immediately after lighting the Menorah, free from distraction phone calls, texting, gaming devices, email, and even taking pictures with their phone. Instead they used the time to enjoy the essence of Chanukah, savor quality time with their family, to learn or to Daven. Every night of Chanukah a family-oriented prize was raffled off to the participants. Thankfully, the program was a great success, and we invited families to share their experiences, each one a “Tech Triumph.”

“We enjoyed family time with dancing and singing after lighting the menorah without the distractions of phone, text messages, and email. We were able to focus on the family and the menorah. We did find it difficult not to use our phone to take pictures of the children during and after candle lighting.”

“Baruch Hashem, it wasn’t so hard,

but it definitely enhanced my Chanukah!

This year, I decided before Chanukah to just stay with the neiros as long as I could.

And I was able to stay next to the Chanukah licht each night for at least half an hour, which was really beautiful! It was nice that I didn’t have the distraction of my phone or computer!”

“Although our family does not have screen time every night, the kids really struggled and even felt like the 30 minutes screen free was torture. The thought of restriction seems to have been a challenge.

(Winning a prize this year was definitely a nice reward for them!) It was an opportunity for us to continue explaining to the kids that we want to spend time together as a family without distractions. We stayed together in the same room singing Chanukah songs, playing dreidel and having conversations. This time gave us the opportunity to explain that there are some families that miss out on meaningful time together with their family because they are distracted by their phones / technology...

I’d like to continue this 30 minutes on a regular basis on weeknights throughout

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“Our family enjoyed quality time together with everyone singing and sitting together! It was meaningful to the children when the phone rang and we said to them, “We don’t need to answer now, we’re enjoying spending time with you.” The only challenge we had was holding off taking pictures, but experiencing the lighting without worrying about getting the perfect shot was well with it.”

“Putting away my phone every night during Hadlokas Neiros allowed me to focus all my attention on things that matter - HKB”H, my family and the holy lights.

One night I missed a timely voicemail and tried calling the person back but they

didn’t answer. I had to hold myself back from feeling bad for leaving my phone for so long. My friend got back to me a bit later and explained that he was also away from his phone, and everything worked out just fine.”

“We had a family game night, and my 12 year old son and I re-invented the game of Connect Four with new rules that made it a much longer and more complex game.

We played until well after the half-hour was over.”

“Going into Chanukah, we signed up for Screen-Free time thinking it would be a big undertaking, but now we realized that we didn’t even notice when our half-hour was over, a true sign that we were able to be present with our family, enjoying the moments and the company! In a way, it was our own Chanukah story, taking on something that we didn’t know we could do, and seeing in retrospect that we are capable of far more than we know!”

Thank you everyone for being an inspiration to our community. The meaningful memories of your quality time are your gift to your family to enjoy forever.

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The Hasidic JewFROM Who RanNUMBER To Israel: Lipa Schmeltzer Returns A SNIPPET JUDAISM’S ONE PODCAST

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hen the world ispower shakIn our interconnected world, the of the media cannot be overestimated. websites, social en Internet up there are somedia, radio, newspapers, and magazines increasingly control the fate of politicians and governments, many peopleandlooking world finances morality. Into thebring chareidi world, the messages conveyed by religious media can shape and strengthen light to the world.

One such emuna, enrich charitable efforts, and ferment new shul and yeshiva policies. Therefore, it was a person is Lipa Schmeltzer, a Hagreat privilege to interview the highly influential Rabbi Eli Paley, owner of sidic singer from Square/ Mishpacha Media GroupNew and publisher of the Mishpacha Hebrew and English weekly magazines.

Skver.

He picked up his entire

put their lives on the line. Lipa also met the mother of Amit, “Just be you, do your thing, talk a 22-year-old paramedic who saved people until she was shot. good on other people, and be an When he met Amit’s mother in CEO OF MISHPACHA the shul in Kibbutz Be’eri she example of light for Am Yisroel.” asked him to sing one more song life to gois to Israel to help in any Eli Paley a businessman and social activist. Kibbutz He is chairman of the Paley FamilyZaka at Be’eri through went to the bases, he was fully about her daughter. He thought Foundation which supports and promotes Centers and social initiatives in the way he could.

He spoke about Torah a timeNetwork, whenhenobody confident and he was encour- here was a mother on another community. A member of the Jewish Funders is active incould several go hisCharedi challenges and the beautiful level of Judaism than his own, The topic among Charedim economic situation in the Israeli philanthropic organizations. there. He felt Hashem was tell- aged byof poverty the soldiers whenand hethe poor community lay heavily on Eli’s heart. As part of the solution, Eli started the Charedi Institute moments he experienced. but her daughter gave away her ing him was vessel and it saw how confident they were of Public Affairs to engage with the government with hopes to resolve this in a way that will We discussed the Mishpacha’s origin, the challenges he ishe faced with a policy decision Growing up Lipa had a conlife for other people.

She could allowit the Charedi society its Torah values. making, and the overall goals he hopes to attain through the publication. was a major gift Hashem gave that was going totoberetain good. nection to the basic things in him. He then went to army bashave got out and saved herself soldier asked him whyin relating WhileAAmerican Jews may have difficulty the issues overseas, Eli, as a born Eli was born in in the Mattesdorff neighborhood in Yerushalayim.

His great-grandfather and Israel like Meron and Mama es and he saw what he describes do but to she stayed there to help peoandyou bred Israeli is certainly in touch withto the masses. He recalls the issue he faced during Charedim come here grandfather arrived in Eretz Yisroel in 1925 to establish the Slabodka Yeshivah in Chevron.

Rochel, but not the typethe ofassistant con- toas she was shot.forbid Thea main his kolel years when distributing the magazine.ple The until government regulation Later his grandfather became Rabbi Herzel, the chief rabbi of Israel. a “melting pot of all types of be with us. You think that you yingeman from receiving Kollel benefits if he had any other source of income.

Therefore, nection he is now involved in. people” who don’t get to choose know thing Lipa takes out of this is whattoyou arehisdoing. he was forced register side jobYour under his wife’s name, a desperate solution used by himself is an alumni of Chevron yeshiva. When he married his wife, a graduate of HeEli was in Israel for Sukkos, that we have all been through many. In his publication, he attempts to broker a better solution.

Michlala in Bayit Vegan, his dream was to continue learning.

However, a few “took months after where to go and this him davening and learning, are prohis marriage, new monthly publication called Mishpacha was stayed therehis abrother bit mentioned longer, aand our own trauma but when people He decided toa half startonce postme. You have that no Israeli ideachareidim Another example of difficulties face is the draft. looking for someone to work as a distributor inover”.

Yerushalayim for a day and every tecting has been to Israel another three the job, gooutthrough trauma Mishpacha discussed statistics of four children is just because 5 to 6 weeks. With flex hours like that, Eli took ing earning what hetwice wasas much doingas he sowould that how good you population make me feel -- one Charedi– and how the army and Charedi societythey can possibly reach a solution. times October are Jewish, as far as he is be for since an entire month in a7th. kolel. Financially independent, he continued to learn diligently. people in New York would know when you take the time to come It was the end of the month what was going on in Israel and and concerned, we are all responsiThe paper faced daily with Hashkafa decisions that have far-reaching effects on our visitisme.

His father, Rabbi Yehuda Paley, bought the Mishpacha Magazine business. To help his offather, Cheshvan when chassidim ble to be there for these people. society.

The issue of printing pictures of women in the magazine has been debated back Eli got involved in the editorial angle ofto the show magazine figuring out how it couldthat make the Israeli people Lipa was asked about the and forth in many forums. When Hilary Clinton was running for President, Mishpacha a unique contribution to the so fieldhe of journalism.

He left learning to pursue his new mission don’t make weddings was we Lipa says that not everybody most moving moments he a exshocked many readers by publishing blurry photo of Donald Trump and Hilary on the to inspire and influence the Chareidi community. Itwere is that there idealismfor thatthem. still drives him in not soyears he decided to go doEli confides. everything and people cover. “We just wanted to see people react,” histoo workbusy so many later.

Lipa spoke about singing to perienced.

He told thehow story ofwouldcan to Israel. His main mission was soldiers who did not grow up a young girl who fought and can do their little deeds, their The office did receive some complaints, but the Gedolim the magazine consults advised Mishpacha is well-received around the world, the goal of Mishpacha is to serve, toWhile show that we are together. He religious. nice Hilary things.

Nobody them to many include her since thereand was atook real possibility would indeed become should elevate and be the voice of the Chareidim, particularly in Eretz Yisroel.

The realthat customers He explains gen- killed terrorists president. However, in Israel, an anti-Mishacha judge publication blasted Mishpacha , claiming went tothe Israel not knowing whereMishpacha themselves for not doing. are not advertisers but the audience. seeks to portray an independent voice eralization and judging is a hu- 12 to herthebody.

She was theybullets were breaking rules of modesty and Torah by publishing a picture of Hilary Clinton. unaffiliated with any party. In the early years, in the chareidi world of hewhich wasisgoing to go.

Hepolitical decided Just be yourself, do your thing, man thing.

When walked in, semi-conscious and felt she was pollicization, this was perceived as a weakness.

However, the years havehe passed, and this tofreedom go to sing for people in hotels talk good about others, and be an This became a real issue because it was very hard for Eli to justify in his has become one of the most salient factors its success. he feltofthat he was being judged, dying and sent anot message to pictures her of women, particularly mind why they could print modest and hospitals. He thought he but the second he opened his parents telling them she loved example of light for Am Yisroel. considering how hard it seems to be to explain to ba’alei teshuvah why women are Mishpacha was the first Charedi publication to give the same respect to the Sephardi and could singsocieties, for people whotonever was askedtohow he was “ignored.”

In order make Mishpacha, often one of Lipa their first exposures Yiddishkeit, Ashkenazi attempting create a sense of unity. this adherence to mouth it Over wastime, a chein that only them and thatto she was dying. more palatable, Eli is comfortable with his decision. equality and before ahavas Yisrael the secret to the business’ success. heard him and became just bring doing emotionally.

He does a Hashem gave. He connected Suddenly she heard a breath joy, “le’shaim shamayim”.

He lot of breath work, and meditaHe’s on to expose she our brothers Mishpacha’s quest in elevating frum society iswith done through writing. them sincere, with ahonest certain ener- next toa big hermission: and realized was to true Torah values, and he bears the responsibility seriously. He often employs a different thinking, creativeon model, a wanted to does go all and just be thatgy. tion way andoftries to afocus posiMishpacha notover engage in pretending society is perfect. While recognizing the There were 1500 soldiers still alive.

She is still recovering stretch and a twist, that can support our lifestyle while at the same time show that we care great achievements and accomplishments in the frum world, Mishpacha will tackle even with everybody. Straight from from many bases, and they were inabout tivity. and other unconventionIsraeli economy, security, its welfare system. “Instead of just complaining thethe hospital.

He says we and don’t unpleasant issues, albeit in an extremely sensitive way. the airport, he was taken to an near Egypt. They probably first think things for healing himself about why we are not understood,” Eli explainedalduring the interview, “we must ask what a 20/21-year-old girl could we can do in this field. While we have to make sure that our kidshelped are not too exposed to the Air Force base where there were thought what is the connection go which has him tremenkill Three bigand world, theterrorists. (outside) world exists,thouand we have to face reality and come up with practical hardly any religious people. He between him and us but he tried sand solutions. “ terrorists came into Israel if dously. In the last year, he did started singing for technicians to break that. a lot of work and he can’t begin they had been stopped by the Rather thannot hiding his head in the sand, he is ready to take on the problems in our and workers. He saw how much to thankinstead Hashem thatthem. it all preneighbourhoods and cities, working with of against Slowly, We are all healing and LIpa people there who knows how farthe authorities he believes, we will be able to build better trust.pared him for this, to be a leader they enjoyed it and he thought has moments when he is anx- they would have gone? These okay I can do this. The next day ious and when he is confident people and a shaliach in Klal Yisroel.

Eli is proud that Mishpacha does not try to be sensationalist. Rather he makes an effort including a police offihe was taken to the hospitals and it will be good. Whenever he cer to keep his editorial policies responsible and sensitive. “If you’re going to do it le’shaim from Sderot whom he met

ELI PALEY

shamayim” Eli ended, “you’ll have disyata d’shmaya to do it right.”

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EMBRACING CHALLENGE/ SHOWING LOVE

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By Rabbi Moshe Dear Executive Director, Baltimore Bikur Cholim

B

altimore, like every other vibrant Jewish community, is blessed to have a plethora of chessed organizations created to support those experiencing some sort of challenge. There are organizations created to help those with medical challenges, emotional needs, financial situations, and various Gemachs to support a myriad of needs.

The fact is that everyone during their lives experiences not only the bliss and joys of life but also the disappointments, downturns, failures, and tragedies. Life is a mixture and tapestry of various ups and downs.

We are all blessed, in varying degrees, with joys, successes, nachas, smachos, and material gains with which Hashem blesses us. We are also challenged, in varying degrees, with disappointments, losses, failure, frustrations, and financial struggles. Such is life.

While it is understandable to wish

for a life of predictability and consistency, we soon learn that there is little in life that we actually control. A Rebbe of mine once pointed out that a healthy heartbeat EKG is one that goes up and down. A straight- line heartbeat is much less desirable! While we are not in control of the circumstances we are fated to experience, we are in control of our reaction to our challenges and our ability to learn and grow from them.

Our great Torah personalities each experienced intense hardship and challenges. Yet, rather than giving up and succumbing to defeat, they rose above the challenge and used it as a springboard for further growth. Our Avos all faced difficulties of various types yet remained vigilant in their quest for attaining spiritual heights. Yosef HaTzaddik, according to the Sfas Emes, thanks his brothers for selling him, for that created his unique chal-

lenges which catapulted him to reach his potential. One reason we place an egg on our seder plate is because Klal Yisrael ,like the egg, becomes harder and harder as its placed on the fire.

As well, we are also compared to olive oil, for just as the oil is secreted from the olive only after it is crushed, so too does the inner strength of the Jew becomes evident when faced with difficulty.

While this quest to learn to embrace our challenges with a growth mindset, to learn from them, and to remain resolute in the face of adversity is an important and worthy one, it is imperative to remember that there is an important difference between embracing our own challenges, with telling others to do the same.

When others are facing illness, financial stress, anxiety, or family concerns, our focus must transform to show sympathy, compassion, and

sensitivity. We embrace only our own challenges while supporting and sympathizing with the challenge of others.

We find this idea in last week’s parsha when Yosef cries over the destroyed Bais HaMikdash in Binyomin’s territory, while Binyomin weeps over the Mishkan destined to be in Yosef’s territory. Each wept for the pain of the other.

We are each placed on earth with this complex and dual role. On one hand, we are tasked to learn and grow from our own challenges, rising above the difficulties. However, the pain and sorrows that others are experiencing must be met with our compassion, empathy, and full support.

May we be blessed with the strength to meet our own challenges, and with the sensitivity and love to meet the challenges of others.

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Yehuda Goldschein (Queens) & Sarina Major (Denver/Baltimore) Efi Weisz (Chicago) & Rina Silver (Baltimore) Howard Elling & Amira Cohen Dovid Teichman & Basi Glazer (both Baltimore) Shim Abrahams & Tzippy Tuchman (both Baltimore) Yehuda Goldman (Baltimore) & Chumi Szimonowitz (Lakewood) Yaacov Singer (Baltimore) & Nechama Notis (LA) Want to see your simcha here? Email mazeltov@baltimorejewishhome.com or text 443-675-6507 to submit your simcha!

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2023 | by the numbers

$245 billion

1,434,555,583 Population of India, which in April became the world’s most populated country, skipping ahead of China, which has a population of 1,425,671,352.

$6.4 trillion The federal government’s budget in 2023. By comparison, in 1980, the entire federal budget was $579 billion. The largest expenditure this year was Social Security, at 22%.

Nat iona l defense was the second largest expense, at 15% of the total budget. In 2023, the federal government brought in “revenue” (i.e. taxes) of $4.8 trillion. Thus, $1.5 trillion was added to the deficit, which is now $25.8 trillion.

The financial worth of Elon Musk, who, in the second half of 2023, snagged the title of richest person in the world from Bernard Arnault, who is only worth $200.6 billion.

148 days Length of the Hollywood writer’s strike. The strike ended on September 27, after the Writers Guild of America (WGA) union negotiated for writers to get better residuals from streaming services and all sides agreed to a ban on using AI to write scripts.

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Number of seasons that Tom Brady played in the NFL before retiring on February 1. His stats scream G.O.A.T. He threw 649 touchdowns, was selected to 15 Pro Bowls, was league MVP 3 times, won 7 Super Bowls in five of which he was the Super Bowl MVP, and played until age 45.

$787.5 million The amount paid by Fox News to Dominion Voting Systems, settling the voting machine company’s defamation lawsuit against the news network.

The settlement on April 18 came on the eve of trial, at which Fox News could have faced a larger verdict for its false claims about Dominion in the aftermath of the 2020 presidential elections.

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2023 | by the numbers

110 years

$1.4 million The amount of money that Hunter Biden is alleged not to have paid taxes on from money paid to him by foreign entities, resulting in a December 7 indictment on nine tax-related charges. This comes in addition to his September indictment on two federal gun charges. All this may be the tip of the iceberg. According to the Republican-led House Oversight Committee, since 2015, the Biden family has been bribed to the tune of over $20 million, with some of the money going to the “big man,” Joe Biden.

Amount of the largest Powerball in 2023, won by an unidentified winner in California on October 11. The one-time cash payout? $774.1 million. The winner has one year to claim the prize; once the prize is claimed, the newly minted almost-billionaire’s name will be made public.

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$1.765 billion

If you are a Democrat who wants Trump to be the 2024 Republican nominee because he is “the gift that keeps on giving,” the surest way to bait Republicans to nominate him is to indict him on 91 federal and state felony counts.

Trump was first indicted in March 2023 by the Manhattan district attorney on state charges related to a hush-money payment in 2016.

In June 2023, he was indicted by a federal grand jury in Miami for taking classified documents with him to Mar-a-Lago. In August 2023, he was indicted in Georgia for election interference and also indicted in Washington for his alleged role in the January 6th events.

Although Trump’s Washington, D.C., case is scheduled for trial on March 4, 2024, one day before Super-Tuesday (on which many states decide on a presidential nominee), the Supreme Court agreed to hear arguments on the Constitutionality of the Washington case. Therefore, the charges may be dismissed before the trial date, or the case may be delayed pending a Supreme Court decision.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

The possible sentence facing Sam Bankman-Fried, 37, who was found guilty of fraud and money laundering, involving his now-collapsed crypto exchange FTX. In January of 2022, FTX was worth $32 billion. The company went bankrupt in December 2022, when customers suddenly panicked and withdrew billions of dollars upon hearing that the CEO of Binance had decided to sell all of his stock in FTX’s digital currency, FTT, “due to recent revelations that have come to light.”

At his trial, Bankman-Fried testified that despite being called the “crypto king,” he actually knew “basically nothing” about digital currencies. “I had absolutely no idea how they worked…. I just knew they were things you could trade,” SBF said. A jury of nine women and three men found him guilty on November 2. The former golden boy of Democratic donors will be sentenced on March 28, 2024.

Amount of cash found stuffed in various envelopes around Sen. Bob Menendez’s home when it was raided by federal agents in June.

In addition, several gold bars which were recovered in the home were traced back to a 2013 heist. Sen. Menendez, who in September was indicted on bribery charges alleging that he acted as a foreign agent for Egypt, is refusing to resign from the Senate.

His reason for having so much cash lying around? “For 30 years, I have withdrawn thousands of dollars in cash from my personal savings accounts, which I have kept for emergencies and because of the history of my family facing confiscation in Cuba.”

91 counts

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$480,000

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

2023 | Came & Went

Things ThaT Came …

AI - Although it’s been a theme in dystopian novels for decades, artificial intelligence had a breakout year in 2023. ChatGPT, a chatbot developed by OpenAI and launched on November 30, 2022, was used by millions by January 2023. On March 14, OpenAI released GPT-4, an upgraded version of their popular artificial intelligence chatbot, setting off an AI frenzy. On May 1, Geoffrey Hinton, the “Godfather of AI,” who earned his nickname for his pioneering work in the AI field, resigned from his role at Google to help spread the word about the dangers of the emerging technology. According to Forbes, 64% of businesses expect AI to increase productivity, while 77% are concerned that AI will cause job loss in the next year.

Chinese Spy Balloon - From

Orange Haze - New York-

January 28 until February 4, 2023, a highly advanced Chinese spy balloon flew over the U.S. At the time, the Pentagon claimed that the balloon “did not collect intelligence while it was transiting the United States or overflying the United States.” However, it was later disclosed that the balloon gathered intelligence from several sensitive American military sites and transmitted that information back to Beijing in real time.

After much pressure on President Biden to do something about the spy ballon, the U.S. military shot it down on February 4 just off the coast of South Carolina. The balloon itself was massive, about 200 feet tall, and the payload attached to it was similar in size to a regional jetliner, weighing more than 2,000 pounds.

ers wait all year for the bright lateJune weather. But this year, on more than one occasion, we awoke to an orange haze caused by the Canadian wildfires. The toxic smoke resulted in unhealthy air quality, causing many to stay indoors. Over 45.7 million acres were burnt in the Canadian wildfire season this year, which finally ended in October.

X - On July 3, Facebook unveiled Threads to compete with Twitter. Within five days, Threads had 100 million users.

That must have scared Twitter’s owner Elon Musk, you’d think. Well, at least his company has been around for more than a decade and its iconic bird logo and name would keep him ahead of the competition. But, Musk wasn’t sweating it at all.

On July 23, he rebranded “the company formerly known as Twitter” and named it X. The bird logo was dismissed from duty as well.

Today, X has 353 million users, and Threads is unraveling like a cheap suit.

Musk is clearly having fun with X. In April, Musk swapped out the Twitter logo with the Shiba Inu dog emoji, much to the consternation of social media purists who couldn’t understand what nerve Musk must have. Answer? A lot.

Ozempic - Weight loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro became all the rage in 2023, leading to a major supply shortage. In October, Elon Musk attributed his weight loss to Wegovy.

Shares of Novo Nordisk, maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, climbed 40% since the beginning of 2023.

Things ThaT WenT …

Yevgeny Prigozhin - The 62-year-old tough man had a long history with President Vladimir Putin. He started out as Putin’s chef and ended up leading the Wagner Group, a mercenary military group. In May, his soldiers captured the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut in a rare victory for Russia. But Prigozhin had gripes with how Russia was carrying out the war, and on June 23, he launched a rebellion, during which his soldiers seized the military headquarters in the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don and began rolling toward Moscow, in what Prigozhin said was “not a military coup, but a march of justice.”

Within two days, Prigozhin agreed to back down. He made peace with Putin and was even photographed in the Kremlin at a state dinner several weeks later. Several prominent Russian journalists, though, declared that Prigozhin was a dead man walking, and Putin was just waiting for the opportune time to take him out. That time came on August 23 when a plane carrying Prigozhin, his righthand man, and ten others spiraled out of the sky and crashed near Moscow. Putin denied involvement and suggested that alcohol, drugs, and hand grenades onboard may have been to blame.

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2023 | Came & Went

WeWork - On November 7, the preeminent coworking space company, WeWork, filed for bankruptcy, marking a stunning downfall for what was once the world’s most valuable startup.

After a botched attempt to go public back in 2019, with a valuation of $40 billion, WeWork co-founder and CEO Adam Neumann, who led the company in an unorthodox manner, stepped down. WeWork regrouped and went public roughly two years later at a much-reduced valuation of $9 billion. Despite high hopes, WeWork announced that it was struggling to pay back its debt. The pandemic was probably the biggest nail in its financial coffin, as people began working more from home than commuting to office spaces. Shares for WeWork plunged roughly 98% in 2023 alone. WeWork will remain in business as it seeks to restructure its debt.

Came and WenT in Congress …

DECEMBER 28, 2023

Affirmative Action - On June 29, the U.S. Supreme Court in a 6-3 vote ruled that race can no longer be a consideration in the college admissions process. The court held that this practice, which supposedly seeks to correct historical racial wrongs, is itself racially discriminatory. Harvard and the University of North Carolina, who were parties in the case, argued that affirmative action is necessary to make sure that enough minority students are getting into their schools. Justice Clarence Thomas declared that programs that admit one race over the other “fly in the face of our colorblind Constitution and our nation’s equality ideal.”

for the weekend on Friday, April 21 by wishing viewers the “best weekend” and telling them he’d be back on Monday. By Monday morning, he was fired.

“FOX News Media and Tucker Carlson have agreed to part ways,” the network said in a statement released by a spokesperson. “We thank him for his service to the network as a host and prior to that as a contributor.”

Tucker moved his show to X before starting the Tucker Carlson Network in mid-December. The streaming service costs $9 a month, a small price to pay for his millions of loyal fans.

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Tucker Carlson - The popular primetime Fox News host signed off

George Santos - On January 4, George Santos was sworn into the House after winning the seat to represent New York’s 3rd Congressional district. The 34-year-old Republican was quickly exposed as a degenerate liar. His entertainment value kept growing as each new lie was exposed and explained away by him. Regarding his false claim that he is Jewish, Santos explained that he meant he was “Jew-ish,” meaning like a Jew. But it was not all good ol’ clean lying. In October, Santos was indicted for numerous crimes, including claims that he stole the identities of donors to his campaign and then used their credit cards to ring up tens of thousands of dollars in unauthorized charges.

On December 1, Santos was expelled from the House of Representatives by a vote of 311-114, making him the sixth House member ever to be expelled from Congress. Santos did not waste any time getting back to work. His new job? Selling personalized Cameo videos for $200 a pop. His Cameo account bio refers to him as “former congressional ‘Icon’!” Yes, he still has much pride. “Look, they can boot me out of Congress,” he declares in a video, “but they can’t take away my good humor or my larger-than-life personality.”

Kevin McCarthy - It took 15

Shorts and Sweatshirts - In early September, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) directed the Senate’s Sergeant at Arms to no longer enforce the chamber’s formal dress code for its members. This was clearly aimed at allowing Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) to operate on the Senate floor in his signature gym shorts and hoody. The move drew quick criticism. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) told Fox News, “I’ve never seen civility enhanced or a sense of decorum enhanced by dressing like a slob.” Sen. Fetterman replied on NBC, “Aren’t there more important things we should be talking about rather than if I dress like a slob?”

After severe pushback from senators on both sides of the aisle, the Senate by unanimous consent passed a resolution formalizing business attire as the proper dress code for the floor of the chamber.

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ballots over four days for Rep. Kevin McCarthy to finally get the 216 votes he needed to become Speaker of the House. That was on January 7. But on October 2, his nemesis Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) filed a motion to have a vote taken on whether or not to oust McCarthy. McCarthy responded minutes later on social media, “Bring it on.” Gaetz replied, “Just did.” With the battle lines drawn, Gaetz was able to get seven other Republicans to join him and the entire Democrat caucus who all voted to give McCarthy the boot.

What followed was a Republican dumpster fire as the caucus spent 22 days trying to elect a new leader. Capping a process that involved four nominees for Speaker, on October 25, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) nabbed the 215 votes needed and finally became the new Speaker of the House.

On December 7, Rep. Kevin McCarthy announced that he is retiring from Congress by year’s end.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

2023 | Notable Deaths

Justice sandra day O’cOnnOr

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Justice Sandra Day O’Connor was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Ronald Reagan and served from 1981 until 2006.

Despite being the first woman to sit on the highest court in the land, she often said, “The power I exert on the court depends on the power of my arguments, not on my gender.” She was known as a moderate conservative. She died on December 1 at age 93.

Henry a.

Kissinger

Jimmy Buffett

Henry A. Kissinger, whose family escaped German antisemitism in 1938, served as the 56th Secretary of State, from 1973 to 1977, under Presidents Nixon and Ford. In addition, he simultaneously served as Nixon’s National Security Advisor, a position he received when President Nixon was sworn into office on January 20, 1969. In 1975, President Gerald R. Ford removed him from his National Security Advisor position while keeping him as Secretary of State.

Kissinger had supreme confidence and is noted to have said, “Accept everything about yourself – I mean everything, you are you and that is the beginning and the end – no apologies, no regrets.” Kissinger was instrumental in opening China to the Western world and advocated for compromise with the Soviet Union. He remained an active voice in foreign policy until his death at the age of 100, on November 29.

Not everyone liked his policies, though.

Upon his death, left-wing Rolling Stone magazine’s spiteful headline read: “Good Riddance: Henry Kissinger, War Criminal Beloved by America’s Ruling Class, Finally Dies.”

Folk singer Jimmy Buffett’s only Top 10 song was “Margaritaville.” Even so, his fans, known as “Parrotheads,” were not only drawn to his music but also to his chilled vibes and visions of flip-flops, hammocks, and sunshine. As to why he was so relaxed, he said, “Is it ignorance or apathy? Hey, I don’t know, and I don’t care.” People were drawn to his different way of looking at things. “If we weren’t all crazy, we’d just go insane,” he quipped.

Buffett sold over 20 million albums and played at almost 2,000 concerts. Despite his longevity in the music industry, he was not a fan of modern day music. “There’s something missing in the music industry today... and it’s music.” He parlayed his persona into a lucrative brand, consisting of restaurants, casinos, retirement communities, and bestselling books. With over 500 employees, his worth was an estimated $1 billion, according to Forbes. Buffett died on September 1, 2023, at age 76.

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For 35 years, Bob Barker hosted “The Price Is Right,” welcoming contestants to vie for prizes by correctly guessing prices…and urging them to “spin that wheel!” Barker, who hosted over 5,000 shows, quipped that “it takes many years of hard work to become an overnight success.”

He hosted the show until the age of 83.

“I think that age as a number is not nearly as important as health,” he said. “You can be in poor health and be pretty miserable at 40 or 50. If you’re in good health, you can enjoy things into your 80s.” Barker died on August 26, at the age of 99.

cHarlie munger Billionaire Charlie Munger was Warren Buffett’s partner at Berkshire Hathaway for 60 years. “We think so much alike that it’s spooky,” Buffett said about his partner.

“Charlie and I have never argued,” Buffett said in 2014.

Munger’s business strategy? “The first rule of fishing is to fish where the fish are,” he quipped at a 2017 Berkshire meeting. “The second rule of fishing is to never forget the first rule. We’ve gotten good at fishing where the fish are.” Ever practical, one of his conditions for donating to universities was that he should have a say in building construction on campus. He explained, “Any time you go to a football game or a function, there’s a huge line outside the women’s bathroom…What kind of idiot would make the men’s bathroom and the women’s bathroom the same size? The answer is: a normal architect!”

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Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter was married to Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States. Their 77-year marriage, during which they had four children and 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, was seen as a model marriage. Rosalynn would often talk about how a lot of work was required to achieve that.

When Rosalynn married Jimmy at the age of 18, she left Plains, Georgia, a tiny little town of 668 people. For the next six years, they moved around various Naval bases throughout the country. But one day, Jimmy decided to quit the Navy and move back to Plains. On the long car ride back to Georgia from Massachusetts, Rosalynn did not say one word in the car. Jimmy often quipped that on that car ride, he decided that he would never make another decision without consulting with his wife first.

During the Carter presidency, Rosalynn was an ever-present fixture in cabinet meetings and at other presidential engagements. She died on November 19, at the age of 96.

BOB BarKer

DECEMBER 28, 2023

rOsalynn carter

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2023 | Notable Deaths

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

2023 | You Paid What?

$63K Louisiana-based auction house LCG Auctions, which specializes in pop culture collectibles, described this product as having “magnificently, showcasing sharp corners front and back, rich color, and ‘case fresh’ features.” What was it? A first-generation 2007 iPhone.

On February 20, an anonymous buyer dished out $63,000 for the clunker, more than 100 times its original cost. Know where your original iPhone is?

$32,408.10 The price paid at an August 30th auction for a 4.8-pound wheel of Spanish cheese. The record-breaking delicacy consists of cow, sheep and goat milk and was left to mature for a minimum of eight months at 44°F in a cave at an altitude of 1,400 meters. Pass the TamTams.

$63,750 $566 Million

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Amount paid by LIV Golf to poach golfer Jon Rahm from the PGA Tour, blowing past the $200 million deal that Phil Mickelson made with LIV Golf. Rahm, who is the No. 3 golfer in the world, signed the four-year deal despite previously being outspoken against the Saudi Arabian-backed golf organization. The 29-year-old had at one point declared that the only reason anyone would join LIV Golf was for money.

He was singing a different tune after signing his mammoth contract on December 8. “Would my lifestyle change if I got $400 million? It would not change one bit,” he said. “Truth be told, I could retire now with what I have made and live a very happy life and not play golf again.” Rahm claimed that the reason for his switch was that there are opportunities “that LIV Golf has to offer that were very enticing.”

No problem, Rahm, if it ain’t about the money, how about you give me some of it?

The amount fetched at a June 29th auction

by Brooklyn-based group MSCHF for a “Microscopic Handbag,” measuring just 657 by 222 by 700 microns (or less than 0.03 inches wide). The fluorescent yellowish-green bag is based on a popular Louis Vuitton design — though it is the work of a New York art collective, not the luxury label itself. It was sold alongside a microscope equipped with a digital display through which the bag can be viewed.

No, your $63K first-generation iPhone will not fit in it.

$2,006,000 We know that the price of postal stamps is increasing way too often. But no stamp has cost as much as the “Inverted Jenny” stamp that sold this year for more than $2 million.

The stamp was originally released in 1918 to commemorate the first regular airmail service in the United States. A printing error led to the plane, called a “Jenny,” on the stamp being printed upside-down. One single sheet of 100 misprinted stamps slipped past quality control. At the time, a clerk bought the sheet for $24. The “Jenny” stamp that sold this year was graded “Mint Never Hinged, Extremely Fine-Superb 95” and was considered the finest Inverted Jenny in existence with no equal. It was sold to Charles Hack, a 76-year-old real estate developer, on November 8. “This is the premium copy,” he said. “It doesn’t get any better than this.”

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2023 | You Paid What?

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

$700 Drury Beer Garden in Philly opened with a bang on May 19. On the menu? A $700 Wagyu meat burger with caviar, fresh black truffle, lobster flambeed with cognac, topped with aged Irish cheddar and drizzled with honey. According to owner George Tsiouris, “We are excited to provide our guests some amazing, creative and tasty options with our new menu concept.”

Think they serve Heinz ketchup with that?

$6,380 Amount paid for a $10,000 bill at a September 18th auction. The bill, dating back to the Great Depression, was issued in 1934 and features the face of President Lincoln’s Secretary of the Treasury, Salmon P. Chase.

And you thought inflation was bad.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

$480,000

The cost per scoop of the newly available white night, a gelato offered by Japanese ice cream brand Cellato. The ice cream has white truffles from Italy that are sourced from the city of Alba and that cost as much as $14,500 per kilogram. It’s also topped off by an edible gold leaf, two types of cheese, and “Sakekasu,” a paste-like ingredient derived from the process of sake-making.

“It took us over 1.5 years to develop, with a lot of trials and errors to get the taste right,” a representative from the company told Guinness World Records.

Would you like rainbow sprinkles or cookie crunch with that?

$2.238 Million

$6 billion The amount the Biden administration agreed to send to Iran in August in return for the release of five American citizens detained by Tehran. As a sweetener, the Biden administration also agreed to release five Iranian citizens held in the United States. No, Mr. Biden has not read The Art of the Deal.

The amount paid at an April 20th Dubai charity auction for a license plate (car not included). What does the license plate say? P 7.

Why is driving around with the license plate P 7 so meaningful in Dubai? Well, because it means you paid $15,000,000 for it.

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$15,000,000

Rumor has it that Michael Jordan gave his famous “Last Dance” sneakers to a ball boy after game two of the 1998 NBA finals. This year, on April 11, the black and red Bred Air Jordan 13s were sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $2.238 million – the highest price ever for sneakers sold at auction. The previous highest amount – $1.472 million at Sotheby’s in 2021 – was spent on a pair of Nike Air Ships that are the oldest-known pair worn

by Jordan during a regular-season game.

The “Breds” sneakers are pretty lucky footwear.

When Jordan wore his “Breds” in Game 2 en route to his sixth NBA title, he recorded 37 points, five rebounds, and three assists with no turnovers in the Bulls’ 93-88 victory against the Jazz. It also marked the last time he wore a pair of Breds in a game.

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1. *

TJH 2023 Sports Trivia 1. Who was the 2023 NBA MVP? a. Joel Embiid b. LeBron James c. Giannis Antetokounmpo d. Stephen Curry 2. Which team won the 2023 Super Bowl? a. Tampa Bay Buccaneers b. Kansas City Chiefs c. Los Angeles Rams d. Green Bay Packers 3. Which team won the 2023 NHL Stanley Cup? a. Tampa Bay Lightning b. Colorado Avalanche c. Pittsburgh Penguins d. Vegas Golden Knights 4. Which team won the 2023 World Series? a. Mets (I know that’s not nice – sorry) b. Arizona Diamondbacks c. Texas Rangers d. Phillies

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Centerfold

5. Who was the American League MVP in 2023? a. Mike Trout b. Shohei

Ohtani c. Mookie Betts d. Fernando Tatis Jr. 6. Who was the National League MVP in 2023? a. Ronald Acuña Jr. b. Yandy Díaz c. Julio Rodríguez d. Pete Aloñzo 7. Which team won the 2023 NBA Championship? a. Milwaukee Bucks b. Lakers c. Denver Nuggets d. Warriors 8. Which horse won the 2023 Kentucky Derby? a. Mage b. Essential Quality c. Hot Rod Charlie d. Known Agenda 9. Lionel Messi’s $12 million base salary with Inter Miami makes him the highestpaid MLS player ever, but how much of a pay cut did he take compared with his

2022 deal at Paris Saint-Germain? a. $14 million b. $37 million c. $42 million d. $56 million 10. For the 16th time, Uncle Joey Chestnut won the July 4th Hot Dog Eating Contest. How many dogs did he down in 10 minutes? a. 24 b. 48 c. 62 d. 112 Answers: 1-A 2-B 3-D 4-C 5-B 6-A 7-C 8-A 9-D 10-C Wisdom Key 8-10 correct: You should really follow through on your dreams of starting a sports podcast.

4-7 correct: You understand what sports is – an outlet, not life itself.

0-3 correct: You are not that great, but still better than the Mets!

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Each of the following is an actual Guiness World Record that was set in 2023, except for one. Can you spot the one that is made up?

Serious ‘Stach: Paul Slosar of Summerville, South Carolina, USA, broke the record for longest moustache in the world, with a span of 2 feet, 1 inch.

Asked if he would shave or trim his moustache for employment, his answer has always been no. “In addition, my wife has told me that if I were to come home with the moustache trimmed or removed, she would serve me with divorce papers,” said Paul. “Until mustache trim do us part…”

Rotton Tomatoes: Andre Ortolf of Germany captured the record for fastest time to drink one liter of tomato sauce when he chugged it down in 55.21 seconds. Don’t pass the ketchup, please.

Many Balls In the Air: James Cozens of England became a juggling world record holder with most objects juggled while riding a unicycle – juggling seven balls for 16.77 seconds while riding his unicycle. How about he try juggling 2 PTAs, preparing dinner, 4 carpools, art lessons, a math tutor, Zoom shiur, get-together for your 4th grade reunion, and preparing for Shabbos. Let him try that for 16.77 seconds!

Squeaking By: Stunt driver, Paul Swift, 44, from England, claimed the Guiness World Record by completing the tightest gap driven through by a pick-up truck on two wheels. I should learn how to do that to get by all the double-parked cars on Central Ave. Right to Left: Deloof Neebevahouy of the Netherlands achieved the World Record for quickest to spell people’s names backwards, when he spelled 7 people’s names backwards in 1 minute and 4 seconds. Seems easy to do, but it’s not. Start by trying to spell Deloof Neebehavouy’s name backwards.

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Oh My Gosh: Actor Akshay Kumar of India achieved the world record for most selfies in three minutes, tallying up a total of 184 selfies.

Wait, I do that every time I’m out with my friends?! These selfies were different— each selfie was with another person. 184 people lined up and coordinated to come in and out of the shot without “selfie bombing” the next shot. Try that next time you go for pizza with your friends. Actually, NOOOOOOOO! Please don’t!

Quick Potatoes: Andre Ortolf of Germany broke the world record by assembling Mr. Potato Head in 11.51 seconds while blindfolded. Takes me less time to do that when my 2-year-old wakes me in middle of my Shabbos nap for some Potato Head help.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

Excuse You!: Kimberly “Kimycola” Winter from Maryland, USA, broke the record for the world’s loudest burp for a female. Her bellowing belch was 107.3 decibels loud. (The male record is 112.7 dB…yep, men will always be better at some things!) Kimberly’s record-breaking burp is louder than a blender (70-80 dB), an electric handheld drill (9095 dB), and even some motorcycles at full throttle (100-110 dB). This is one of those rare talents that probably should be left off of the shidduch resume.

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What a Record!

Answer: You obviously weren’t able to spell Deloof Neebehavouy’s name backwards.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

I very much judge anyone who participates in the social murder of disabled people just because it’s “the holidays.” Many of us who are high risk are missing our FOURTH [X-mas] because other selfish people can’t be bothered to mask and take basic precautions that allow us to safely participate in public life.

- Washington Post journalist and Covid-activist Taylor Lorenz, in a social media post

I think people put so much stress on themselves.

They worry about things that are not important to them… You have to avoid the stress.

- 103-year-old Angie Torrisi, in an interview with Fox News

If you sit around [and] do nothing, stupid thoughts will go through your mind. You have to keep busy doing other things. I bake. I eat.

Let’s not forget the White House giving Tesla the cold shoulder, excluding us from the EV summit and crediting GM with “leading the electric car revolution” in the same quarter that they delivered 26 electric cars (not a typo) and Tesla delivered 300 thousand.

- Tweet by Elon Musk

Most of the Democratic Party is controlled by the unions — they carry far more weight than the environmentalists — and Biden particularly so (he gladly admits it).

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- Ibid.

In Biden’s speech, posted on WhiteHouse.gov, he literally says, “The UAW elected me.” The White House cold shoulder started well before I said controversial things.

- Ibid.

Some people who have children and families decide they want to go to a place where their children can play outdoors, larger green spaces, you want to see animals — you don’t see animals except for rats in New York.

So there’s a combination of things. And we are getting rid of those rats, by the way.

- New York City Mayor Eric Adams, when asked why over 100,000 people left New York over the past year

- Ibid.

The [New York] Times’s problem has metastasized from liberal bias to illiberal bias, from an inclination to favor one side of the national debate to an impulse to shut debate down altogether.

- James Bennet — who resigned as editorial page editor of the New York Times in 2020 amid internal fury over an op-ed by Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), writing in the Economist about how the New York Times is warped

I prayed, and I prayed. And I 100% believe that that was a big impact, too.

- Bailey Davis, of Ohio, who lost her engagement ring at a rest stop and had it returned to her the next day, in an interview with USA Today

I feel what goes around comes around and you do good deeds upon others, it’ll come back to you tenfold.

- Truck driver Coty Warren, who found and returned the ring, explaining why he refused to accept the $1,000 reward

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THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

This was my fifth visit to Israel, and I have never seen a more unified country. Among people of all walks of life, from wounded soldiers to families of peace activists, whose mothers, fathers or siblings were murdered or are still held captive in Gaza, the horror of October 7th has erased divisions within Israel. Everyone has come together for a greater cause – to defeat Hamas, to build a better and safer Israel, and a better, safer world.

- From a social media post by Jessica Seinfeld, wife of Jerry Seinfeld, upon her return from Israel

- Israeli politician and activist Moshe Feiglin, in an interview with Arutz Sheva

The definition of victory is to conquer the land, evacuate all the people from Gaza, and rebuild the whole Gaza Strip as the new greater Tel Aviv; Gaza should be a big city like Tel Aviv. Of course, Gush Katif must be built again. We should have an airport over there. We should have hotels.

This should be the new Israeli Riviera. That should be the vision; nothing less than that.

That’s a victory. When you talk about sacrificing our heroes, our children, in Gaza and then giving it back to the Gaza people, they are the enemy.

What is striking to me is that even as, again, we hear many countries urging the end to this conflict, which we would all like to see, I hear virtually no one saying, demanding, of Hamas that it stop hiding behind civilians, that it lay down its arms, that it surrender. This is over tomorrow if Hamas does that. This would have been over a month ago, six weeks ago, if Hamas had done that.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

During World War II, Churchill said, “There’s no innocent German,” and the Americans did not leave a humanitarian path for the babies of Nagasaki or Hiroshima, and they burned all the German cities and all the Japanese cities to ashes.

– Sec. of State Anthony Blinken

How can it be that there are no demands made of the aggressor and only demands made of the victim?

- Ibid.

- Ibid.

- Tweet by Arsen Ostrovsky, an International Human Rights lawyer, in response to the New York Times publishing an op-ed by the Hamas appointed mayor of Gaza City

We gave Zelensky $75 billion in aid, and he can’t even buy a sports jacket? Out of respect for the Oval Office, Presidebt Reagan wouldn’t even take his jacket off in it, and this guy goes in for his meeting dressed like a slob.

- Mark Simone, 710 WOR

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I wonder, would NYT also publish an op-ed from Al-Qaeda justifying 9-11? Of course not, but there is no red line to this paper’s Jew-hatred.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

Every morning, I’d sing Bocelli to myself and say, “G-d, maybe this will bring a good day. Maybe today will bring [my release].”

- Freed hostage Yaffa Adar, 85, in a television interview

There is no award, no applause, no honor or recognition, that is worth as much as your words, which I assure you, I shall never forget.

- From a letter that Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli wrote to freed hostage Yaffa Adar after hearing what she said

I truly would never have thought that my humble voice, this great gift I undeservedly received from the heavens, could one day turn out to be so important! ... Thanks to you, from now on, I shall sing with renewed enthusiasm, with renewed faith, with new energy.

- Ibid.

I hope to be able to meet you one day and sing, just for you, whatever you may wish, so as to erase, as much as possible, the painful memory of terrible days, which I cannot even imagine.

I kind of like religious people of a lot of different faiths. And when I saw the chassids in Brooklyn during Covid and they were like, “We are going to our weddings because we are Orthodox and that’s what we do,”… I was like: You go chassids!

- Ibid.

- Tucker Carlson at the Turning Point USA conference

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Life C ach

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Do You See Me?

By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., LMFT, CLC, SDS

T

heard, except, of course, before 7 a.m. or after 11 p.m. Then we probably just want to be left alone.

But do we want to be seen or heard when we are out of control? Probably not exactly. That’s when we really want that extra understanding. Don’t see my behavior or hear my words, rather I need you to understand and “get me!”

And not “get me” gifts or presents, though they’re always welcome! I want you to get my underlying feeling. Get that I’m hurt, frustrated, overwhelmed, sad, or scared.

Don’t see my actions; don’t hear my words. Look for the feeling that drove the behavior or words.

That’s the best you can do for someone.

So what are some other words people dread?

It depends who:

Can you imagine something like just taking out the garbage can make someone feel all those amazing feelings?

For a kid: “It’s bedtime!”

For most wives: “Game’s on tonight.”

For a husband: “I just want to tell you one thing.”

For an employee: “We need to downsize.”

Rivki Rosenwald is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with both couples and individuals and is a certified relationship counselor. Rivki is a co-founder and creator of an effective Parent Management of Adolescent Years Program. She can be contacted at 917-7052004 or at rivkirosenwald@gmail.com.

reach out to that someone in your life who gets you and will see your underlying feeling rather than the litany of complaints you may be expressing.

Got it?

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Can you imagine something like just taking out the garbage can make someone feel all those amazing feelings?

Now, imagine if they did it without even being asked?!

We all have the desire to be seen and

For a traveler: “Plane’s delayed.”

For an Uber user: “Car’s cancelled.”

No matter what the words are that you don’t like hearing, if you can keep your cool for just a little bit, hopefully you can

DECEMBER 28, 2023

here are three words that we never want to hear. I bet you’re on the edge of your seat wondering what they are.

Well, it could actually be any number of words, maybe one or five or two.

And I’m not even sure what your particular ones are, but we all have them!

Sometimes it’s the word no.

Sometimes, for me, it’s “OK, soon.”

I love when something gets taken off my plate. “Soon” or “in a few minute” leaves it squarely on my plate, front and center. It puts it right back on my ever increasing “to do” list. When someone gets up and takes care of it, right that minute, it’s the most wonderful feeling. It’s not just that the thing gets done, though make no mistake, that does help certainly. It’s bigger and deeper, believe it or not – it’s that I feel loved, heard, supported, and valued.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023

Dating Dialogue

What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters

Dear Navidaters,

I am a busy accountant in my upper 30s and have been divorced for a half a year after being married for over 10 years. The divorce was the last thing I wanted, but sadly, it is what it is. Due to severe challenges, religious

differences, etc. there was no way to properly continue the marriage.

I have started dating again, and I find myself excited for things to progress early on as I am excited about building a normal bayis neeman. I find that every time I date a girl who I like, she seems to end it pretty early on. I am being very open and honest, genuine, polite, and thoughtful – all which are big parts of who I am.

My sister and brother-in-law, who are helping me navigate dating this time around, suggested I take things much slower and don’t necessarily open up quickly, just have a nice time for the first few dates, but isn’t that

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counter-productive? What do you think?

Thanks for taking the time to help me with this.

Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.

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The Panel

The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

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our sister and brother-in-law have a point. General compatibility is a good way to start a relationship as you date as a divorced man. Being suspicious of people who open up right away, six months after a divorce, can be understood. Women may wonder, why is he opening up so quickly? Has he processed the break? What has he learned from it? Has he been in therapy? Maybe he has social issues?

Men and women tend to take it much slower the second time around for several reasons. They may doubt their own judgment; after all, they didn’t pick “right” the first time around. Second,

they know from their own experience that presentation and reality don’t match up necessarily. Third, they may feel very vulnerable but don’t want that vulnerability (which they are very aware of) to impact their judgment and are very cautious. People may be matching them up with random dating partners just because they are single again and want to settle down. They know many people whose second marriages did not work out.

Be smart. Be mindful of yourself, your feelings, your takeaways, and your position now. Get into therapy if you haven’t already begun post-divorce therapy. It should be about what you are taking with you from a marriage that didn’t work out to a potential second marriage – expectations, communication styles, realistic objectives, and more. Understand yourself better. This will be a pro-

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cess, and you will grow from it into a better dating partner.

Dating is not a doctor’s appointment.

The Shadchan Michelle Mond

Y

our sister hit the nail on its head. It seems that you are being too open, too early on, thereby giving off either a socially off or clingy/eager vibe that is a turn-off to most normal women. This does explain why, most likely, your relationships are ending early on.

I understand you are eager to be back in a relationship after your divorce, and many newly divorced men make the same mistake you are making. Women who were never married, especially, will not know what to do with the amount of

personal information and oversharing you are likely expressing.

Dating is not a doctor’s appointment.

You are not expected to come prepared with all your medications, full family history, and personal history, and let it all out in a short period of time. Take the first three to four dates as an opportunity to slowly get to know each other on a basic level, have a good time, see if your energy matches, and if you easily laugh together — have fun!

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Yes, your life might be much more colorful and elaborate as the woman you’re dating, and she will get to know all of that over time. However, as with anything, slow and steady wins the race. Practice the art of holding back.

Focus your energies on planning really nice and thoughtful dates and be a good active listener while you’re on the date itself.

I venture to say that with your finger on the pulse of this issue, you will get into a better groove and hopefully have more successful dates and hopefully find your bashert soon.

The Single Tzipora Grodko

M

y answer may seem controversial to others but hear me out.

I think many people will try to provide you with a “solution” to your

“problem” of girls ending the dates early on. The truth is that although we wish we had insight and clear answers why a seemingly good shidduch should work, we often don’t. Usually, there’s a lack of mutual comparability, leading one party to terminate the process as soon as they have clarity.

To me, it actually seems like a good sign that you’re not experiencing rejection AFTER long-term relationships.

Especially if you’re a transparent person, people may not feel like they need more time to “get to know you” in order to determine if the match is a good fit. It doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, but rather that the right person hasn’t been presented yet.

Of course, there’s always the concern with over-sharing, which can often seem like an indicator of unresolved personal difficulties.

What I’ve gathered (from friends and research) is that I think in a second marriage people are more honest (so to speak, transparent and quicker) in

sharing their life, and that’s OK. It’s all done to avoid misunderstandings and wasting time. On that note, I wouldn’t encourage anyone to share their intimate life story upon an initial meeting, but rather after spending more time together where the person can first get to know you in order to understand what makes you who you are rather than simply what happened to you.

Don’t worry; G-d has a plan and you’re being guided towards the right person!

The Zaidy Dr. Jeffrey Galler

Y

ou certainly never expected to be faced with such difficult life challenges. The good news, though, is that there are many wonderful, single, young women, who would love to meet you and build a meaningful relationship with you.

The problem is that in your eagerness to start a new phase of life, you are probably

It might seem like an oversimplification, but slow and steady wins the race.

coming across as a bit too desperate.

When you date prospective life partners, your sister and brother-in-law are quite correct. Take it slow. Try to enjoy the process of meeting and dating new people. Put your very best qualities on display.

Don’t overwhelm your dates with all of your vulnerabilities and with all the sad details of your negative experiences.

Try to enjoy each other’s company, get to know and appreciate each other, and see if a natural fondness and chemistry develops.

It might seem like an oversimplification, but slow and steady wins the race.

Pulling It All Together The Navidaters

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Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

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hank you for writing! With divorce comes so much sadness and also tremendous hope. It allows the opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment that was not available to you in your former relationship. It seems like you are an incredibly thoughtful person, and you would like to attract a like-minded woman. It’s wonderful that you have an involved support

system, and you are speaking with them about dating.

I am a big believer in being yourself and allowing the organic process to take root. When we hold back or hide who we are, we are likely to attract someone who will not fully accept or love us exactly as we are. This creates resentment and loneliness in relation-

ships down the road.

With that being said, if you are wondering if you are doing something “wrong,” on your dates, my best advice would be to speak with a therapist or dating coach. It may not be the content of what you are saying that is leading to these “one and done” situations, but the way you are conveying the content. (Or, it may simply be that you haven’t met your person yet.) I have found that people who crave deep connections can sometimes come off or be perceived as “too intense.” And no

matter what anyone may tell you, having fun with your partner is an important part of life. The ability to be light and carefree and playful is very attractive to many people. It may be that you need to work on striking that balance. Without having met you or knowing you, it is impossible for me to say. Speaking with someone may give you the clarity you are looking for.

Wishing you all the best, Jennifer

Jennifer Mann, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and certified trauma healing life coach, as well as a dating and relationship coach working with individuals, couples, and families in private practice at 123 Maple Avenue in Cedarhurst, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 718-908-0512. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email JenniferMannLCSW@gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for dating and relationship advice.

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Health & F tness

What Do You Advise?

By Rabbi Dr. Dovid Fox

A

Egyptian writer puzzled over why his enemy hated him: he had always avoided offering that man advice!

What do people seek when they unload their burden? For many, it is the

an empathy failure. An empathic friend leaves him or herself out of the situation and responds instead to the one who struggles, validating their feelings of anxiety, or sadness or confusion and

Your empathy, your warmth and your respect for each individual are the tools for connecting with them during their plight.

wish to be heard, to be accepted, and to feel your support and caring. They are not asking for you to solve or resolve their struggle. What most people do not seek is your own solution. When I end up talking to them about myself, that is

acknowledging with them that their situation is generating those feelings. For example, if someone says, “I keep waking up with scary images,” responding with a suggestion such as “I’d take melatonin” or “stop looking at those images”

Rabbi Dr. Dovid Fox is the director of Chai Lifeline Crisis and Trauma Services. For Israel crisis resources and support, visit chailifeline.org/Israel or call 855-3-CRISIS.

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significant percentage of the crisis calls coming in present a dilemma and ask for advice.

Whether a professional, a first responder, a friend or a relative, be careful about advice giving. Many years ago, an article appeared in an archeological journal which described discovery of the first intact specimen of ancient cuneiform writing found in Egypt. The scientists were able to decipher it, determining that it was a note sent by a man to his enemy. The translation was, “Why do you hate me? I never gave you advice.”

When someone opens up to us, describing their plight or their feelings, a compassionate side of us wants to make it better, to help the person feel relief, and for their problem to go away. Our practical side activates, and we advise them to do exactly what we think we would do if that situation happened to us.

The problem here is that most struggles which others share with us do not respond to our logic. There is generally an emotional component to their distress or confusion, for which practical solutions may not suffice. For that matter, our finest advice might be way off target, and instead of our friend or family member feeling supported and understood, they are likely to feel dismissed, or even deprecated because our well-intended suggestion trivialized their dilemma. Few people enjoy the implication that if they were more logical, their problems would be solved. Thus, our ancient anonymous

or “try saying Krias Shema one hundred times” will not feel empathic. In turn, responding with “that is rough. Scary images disturb your sleep, and you wake up” may seem like an echoing of what they have just told you, but you have demonstrated to them that you took time to listen, you “get it” and you signify that their reaction is likely a valid one under the circumstances, and a normal one at that.

In responding further, you might prompt the person to share what they have tried up until now to cope. You may discover that the advice you were about to give them has been tried already and was not effective. Once most people – and we can include children as well as adults here – feel that you have heard them and care and are available for further discussion, they may be more receptive to collaborative problem solving together with you. On the other hand, you will also discover that there are those who are content with having been able to open up to you, the receptive supportive listener, and that in itself was the only response they sought from you.

The Torah declares that one must not cause others to stumble, and the Talmud derives from there an adage: we offer only recommendations which befit that specific person – eitzah hogenes lo. Your empathy, your warmth and your respect for each individual are the tools for connecting with them during their plight. Hold off on the advice giving until you really know what they seek and until they are primed for that eitzah hogenes.

DECEMBER 28, 2023

“I keep waking up at night with scary images. What do you advise?”

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Common

Cents

By Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST

Looking Back to Move Forward: Make 2024 Your Money Year!

T

he end of the year can sometimes feel like a financial time warp. On the one hand, looking back on how the previous year went and understanding how much was earned, spent, and saved is essential. On the other hand, it is a great time to think about the future and calibrate yourself with an actionable plan that provides financial flexibility and discipline to live a responsible life.

In this final Common Cents article of 2023, I would like to share some thoughts and ideas on how to approach reviewing your financial past and plan for your financial future so that you can maximize your financial present!

Reflecting on 2023: Where Did Our Money Go? 1. Gather Your Financial Data: Start by collecting all your financial statements: bank accounts, credit cards, loans, and investment accounts.

At the very least, take the total balances on every bank and investment account at the beginning of the year and subtract them from the total balances on those same (plus any new) accounts at the end of the year. For example, suppose the January monthly statements showed a $5,000 checking account balance, $14,000 in a highyield savings account, $5,000 in a Roth IRA, and $10,000 in an employer 401K. In that case, you have a total opening balance of $34,000. If the balances at the end of the year are $5,500, $16,000, $7,000, and $14,000 in those same accounts at the end of the year, the total ending balance is $42,500 an annual increase of $8,500 in your

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78

financial assets.

2. Categorize Your Spending: Break down your expenses into housing, utilities, groceries, entertainment, and education categories - all the basic categories people spend on.

Personal finance apps can help automate and simplify this tedious but critical exercise. Nerd Wallet recently published an excellent article reviewing the best budget apps online. At Northbrook Financial, we use a financial planning app clients use to build customized budgets and track progress over time.

3. Analyze Irregular Expenses: Don’t overlook annual or semi-annual payments like insurance premiums or car maintenance. These can be significant and should be accounted for in your monthly budget. I recommend taking an annual payment, dividing it by 12, and using that as the amount to include in your monthly budget. Granted, your budget won’t match the month’s activity exactly, but an essential lesson of personal finance is that you rarely have months that perfectly fit your financial expectations. That’s just life. Be reasonable and move on!

4. Reflect on Your Financial Goals: Did you achieve the financial milestones you set for 2023? Understanding the gap between your goals and reality can help pinpoint where to adjust.

Implementing a “Pay Yourself First” Plan for 2024 1. What Does “Pay Yourself First”

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Paying yourself first means prioritizing savings and investments before any other expenses. It’s about treating your future self as the most critical bill you must pay. At Northbrook Financial, we include “PYF” accounts within a client’s monthly budget to help reinforce the mentality of proactively saving and investing.

2. Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Identify what you’re saving for retirement, college funds, or an emergency reserve. Having specific targets makes it easier to stay disciplined.

3. Calculate Your Disposable Income: Subtract your essential expenses (housing, utilities, food) from your total income to understand what you could save. Focus on the essential expenses to calculate what you can save - anything left over is yours to spend as you see fit. This helps people follow through on savings and feel financially flexible to spend whatever is left over after savings.

4. Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your savings and investment accounts right after you get paid. This ensures you save before you have the chance to spend.

Tips for Tracking and Boosting Cash Flow in 2024 1. Cut Unnecessary Costs: Analyze your spending categories and identify what you can reduce or eliminate. Small changes can lead to significant savings over time.

2. Review and Adjust Regularly: Make it a habit to review your budget and savings plan monthly. As your life changes, your financial plan should too. Clients at Northbrook Financial are coached on reviewing cash flow monthly and then fall into a rou-

tine that is very empowering and does not take a lot of time.

3. Plan for Large Purchases: If you anticipate a significant expense (like a vacation or a new appliance), set aside money months in advance in a high-yield savings account.

4. Work with a professional: Scheduling time with a fee-only fiduciary financial planner can help people looking to get started with a solid savings and cash management plan. In our practice, we start every client engagement with a detailed review of cash flow management and build a reasonable budget and accountability plan to track over the year.

As 2023 ends and 2024 beckons, taking control of your financial future is more important than ever. By understanding where your cash has flowed in the past year and implementing a “pay yourself first” strategy, you’re setting the stage for a wealthier and more secure future. Remember, the journey to financial freedom is a marathon, not a sprint. Keeping your finances on track takes time, discipline, and regular review. Here’s to a prosperous and financially savvy 2024 for you and your family!

Common Cents is now digital on YouTube @CommonCents613 The decision to start saving and investing is yours, but the “how” can be hard. Email commoncents@northbrookfinancial.com to schedule a free financial planning consultation with our team.

Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST is Co-Founder of Northbrook Financial, a Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management Firm. He has developed and continues to teach a popular Financial Literacy course for high school students.

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To Raise a Laugh

I’m Not Going To Be the Test Tube

A

s someone who uses words for a living, it’s getting increasingly more difficult to say anything these days, in fear of offending someone.

But I don’t complain (about that).

After all, our very ability to use words is a gift that Hashem gave us. Isn’t that what makes us better than the animals?

Not according to PETA, the world-famous animal-rights organization that, as far as I know still hypocritically only employs people.

But whatever – in general, their hearts are in the right place. They’re very instrumental in stopping tzar baalei chaim. But recently, they issued a kol koreh against people using expressions that normalize cruelty toward animals, such as “killing two birds with one stone.”

But PETA isn’t just ripping away all our time-tested expressions and leaving us hanging. To start us off, they presented a list of idioms we use that are insensitive to animals and that we should substitute, at least when we’re in the presence of those animals.

For example, take the expression, “Kill two birds with one stone.” This seems morbidly anti-bird. Why is this considered a grand accomplishment? Instead, they say, why not replace it with, “Feed two birds with one scone”? Well, for one, I’m not sure what a scone is. I’m not flying to England to buy a scone. But assuming I have a scone, I still think the expression isn’t as strong. How hard is it to feed two birds with one scone? I would say

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By Mordechai Schmutter

a scone can probably feed more than two birds, so isn’t the expression saying that you’re accomplishing less than you should? Unless we’re talking about ostriches.

Or take the expression, “Let the cat out of the bag.” There are a lot of expressions about people doing horrible things to cats. Instead, PETA says, why not say, “Spill the beans”? Okay, first of all, “Spill the beans” is already an expression. And why are beans such a big secret, anyway? “Oh no, he spilled them! Now people know we have beans!”

And second, isn’t letting the cat out of the bag a good thing?

They also have issue with the expression, “Opening a can of worms”, as this is cruel to worms, notwithstanding that putting them in the can is crueler than opening the can. Either way, they want to change the expression to “Opening Pandora’s box.” Yeah. Um, isn’t this offensive to people who don’t believe in Greek gods? Which is basically everyone nowadays? PETA’s really opening a huge can of pre-cut onions with this one. What about – I don’t know -- “Opening a fire hydrant”?

They also say that “Bring home the bacon” should be changed to “Bring home the bagels”.

Well, that sounds anti-Semitic. At least we’re not offending pigs. Not that I ever loved bringing home the bacon. You can’t eat it anyway, and it ruins your whole attaché case. Also, I know they don’t know this, but isn’t bringing home the bagels what you do after a bris if your wife didn’t come?

They also want “There’s more than one way to skin a cat” to become “There’s more than one way to peel a potato.” This one might be anti-Semitic too. But is there? I only know of one way to peel a potato. Two, if you count spiking the potato on an electric drill and holding out the peeler. Oh, and there’s boiling them and then throwing them in ice water so the skin pops off. Hey, it turns out there are a bunch of ways to peel potatoes! Should we try all of those on cats? No, wait, I lost track of what we’re doing here.

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And finally, they want to turn “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” to

“Don’t put all your berries in one bowl.” Isn’t that called a fruit salad? So I shouldn’t make fruit salad? And anyway, it’s not the same at all. We use eggs for everything. There are no berry emergencies. Also, if you drop a basket of eggs, they all break. If you drop a basket of berries, you wash them off and they’re good as new. Even the bruised ones are still edible. It’s just cosmetic, like all these expressions.

“These expressions really get my goat,” said one PETA spokesperson. “Get my throat? Get my coat?”

And there are plenty of expressions they left out: - “I could eat a horse” (“I could eat a horseradish”) - “You can catch flies with honey” (“You can catch guys with money”) - “Give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day” (“Give a man a knish and he’ll eat for a day. But teach him how to knish…”)

Here’s the thing: I don’t love the original expressions either. I make fun of them all the time.

But if you’re going to come up with a new expression that you expect to take off, it has to be at least as good. If you say, “Putting your berries in one bowl,” that will inevitably lead to someone asking, “What?” and then you have to explain it by way of using the eggs metaphor, and what did you accomplish? All your eggs will be offended.

Wait. No, they won’t. The animals themselves are not protesting, because either 1. They don’t know English, or 2. They do know English, but they don’t care.

They have bigger things to worry about, like the food chain. If other animals are hunting you, you’re not worrying about expressions.

The last time animals actually protested in the streets, that I know of, was in Mitzrayim, and they were protesting the unethical treatment of the Yidden. So I guess they had our backs, and we should totally have theirs.

Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia and other magazines. He has also published eight books and does stand-up comedy. You can contact him at MSchmutter@gmail.com.

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Ceviche

By Naomi Nachman

Ceviche is a delightful dish that originates from the coastal regions of Latin America, particularly Peru. This refreshing and vibrant recipe showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It typically consists of raw fish marinated in citrus juices, such as lime or lemon, which effectively “cooks” the proteins. The citrus juices impart a tangy and zesty flavor, while the addition of various herbs, vegetables, and seasonings further enhances the taste. Ceviche is often served chilled and makes for a fantastic appetizer or a light meal on a warm day. Its combination of acidity, freshness, and the natural sweetness of the seafood creates a truly mouthwatering experience. So, let’s dive into the world of ceviche and explore its tantalizing flavors!

Ingredients

◦ 1½ pounds salmon fillet, finely chopped ◦ ½ pound tuna fillet, finely chopped ◦ ½ cup lemon juice ◦ 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped ◦ 2 tablespoons olive oil ◦ ½ teaspoon kosher salt ◦ ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

◦ ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced ◦ 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted and finely chopped ◦ ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Preparation

1. Combine salmon, tuna, lemon juice, lime juice, jalapeno, olive oil, salt, pepper,

and onion in a medium bowl. Marinate, covered, in refrigerator for 2-4 hours.

2.

Just before serving, add avocado to the fish mixture; sprinkle with

cilantro.

Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website, www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.

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Your

This Honorable Court is Now in Session

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Money

By Allan Rolnick, CPA

F

or over 234 years, the Supreme Court has issued opinions that have changed the course of our government, our history, and our very American character. In 1803, Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review and cemented the court’s role as a co-equal branch of government. In 1954, Brown v. Board of Education ruled that “separate but equal” was inherently unequal and struck a mortal blow against the evils of Jim Crow. In 1964, New York Times v. Sullivan established that public officials can’t sue for defamation without proving “actual malice.” And in 1924, United States v. Ninety-Five Barrels, More or Less, Alleged Apple Cider Vinegar (a real case), suggests that the Justices, more or less, might even have a sense of humor.

The Court rarely hears tax cases.

Last week, however, in Moore v. United States, they heard one such dispute that could blow a massive hole in the federal budget. Very briefly (because a deep dive would make your head hurt), it involves whether the government can tax income before a taxpayer actually “realizes” it.

Specifically, the plaintiffs, Charles and Kathleen Moore, are challenging a section

of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which imposed a one-time tax on income that U.S. corporations’ shelter in overseas subsidiaries. If the Court rules for the plaintiffs, it could cost the Treasury 340$ billion in tax and topple key pillars of the current code.

The Moores own 11% of a company selling agricultural supplies to Indian

ranged from skeptical to hostile. Their main rationale is that our current system taxes “unrealized income” all the time. If you run your business as a partnership or an S corporation, for example, you’ll pay tax on your share of the entity’s income whether it sends you that money or not.

As is often the case, there’s a broader agenda hiding under the specific facts

Nobody takes a $15,000 case all the way to the Supreme Court – there’s always more at stake.

farmers. They paid $14,729 in taxes under the 2017 law, even though they hadn’t sold their stock or collected any cash dividends.

They sued to get their money back, basing their argument on a 1920 decision, Eisner v. Macomber, holding that “enrichment through increase in value of capital investment is not income in any proper meaning of the term.”

Justices Alito and Gorsuch seemed sympathetic to the Moores’ case. The rest

here. Several senators led by Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren have proposed a wealth tax equal to 2% of your net worth between $50 million and a billion, and 3% on anything over a billion. Opponents argue that taxing wealth, as opposed to income, violates the same principle. Most observers see Moore as a preemptive strike against future wealth taxes. And nobody takes a $15,000 case all the way to the Supreme

Court – there’s always more at stake.

You might not think you’re rich enough to worry about a wealth tax. But the first modern income tax, in 1913, didn’t kick in until you made the equivalent of $93,000 in today’s dollars and topped out at just 7% on anything over today’s $15 million. Now look where we are!

Today, that wealth tax is still just a bill.

(Sittin’ here on Capitol Hill…) There’s no realistic chance it will pass, not as long as there are still Republicans drawing breath, but Uncle Sam likes to spend more than he takes in, regardless of who’s in the White House. So we can still expect to see senators offering more proposals to tax things like carbon emissions, sales, and wealth long into the future.

Fortunately, we’ll be here to help you understand whatever new taxes Washington sends our way. We’ll parse the laws that Congress passes and study those boring tax opinions so you don’t have to!

Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in practice for over 30 years in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@aol.com.

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